A Clinicoradiological and Functional Evaluation of Lapidus Surgery for Moderate to Severe Bunion Deformity Shows Excellent Stable Correction and High Long-Term Patient Satisfaction

Background. Lapidus surgery involving arthrodesis of the first metatarsocuneiform (MTC) joint is an effective procedure for the correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus. The aim of this study was to collect and analyze radiographic data from our institution and determine the extent of first metatarsal shortening associated with the Lapidus procedure. Materials and Methods. A total of 53 patients (54 feet) who underwent arthrodesis of the first MTC joint combined with modified McBride bunionectomy for correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity, between 2010 and 2015 were included in this study. Complete radiographic evaluation and AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgery) scoring was available for 54 feet. The average preoperative hallux valgus angulation (HVA) was 32° and the average intermetatarsal angle (IMA) was 16°. Results. Excluding 2 patients with postoperative hallux varus the average postoperative HVA correction at last follow-up was 14°. Average postoperative IMA was 9°. Although there was minimal bone resection during preparation of the MTC joint, no significant shortening of the first metatarsal was observed with this procedure. The relative length of the first metatarsal to the second metatarsal changed only 1.3%. Nonunion of the first MTC joint occurred in 10.3%, but only 1 foot was symptomatic requiring revision. The average postoperative hallux AOFAS score was 80.8. In sum, 63% of patients were very satisfied, 27% satisfied with reservations, and 10% were dissatisfied. Conclusion. The Lapidus bunion procedure offers excellent stable correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity with minimal shortening of the first metatarsal and thereby higher patient satisfaction. Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Retrospective case series