Severe hallux valgus can be treated using a distal metatarsal osteotomy: Results of 144 cases treated with the SERI technique

Purpose: Aim of this study is to analyze the clinical and radiographic results of the simple, effective, rapid and inexpensive (SERI) technique, a linear distal metatarsal osteotomy, for treating severe hallux valgus (HV). Methods: Clinical outcomes were assessed pre- and postoperatively using the AOFAS, MOxFQ and VAS score. Pre and postoperative HV angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were measured. Results: 117 consecutive patients for a total of 144 feet were included. Pre and postoperatively, mean AOFAS changed from 44.8 +/- 16.7 to 89 +/- 10.3 (p <.001), mean MOxFQ changed from 76.2 +/- 15.8 to 23.4 +/- 7.9 (p <.001) and mean VAS score improved from 6.7 +/- 2.1 to 1.5 +/- 1.5 (p <.001). HVA diminished from 40.6 degrees +/- 6.9 preoperatively to 16.0 degrees +/- 7.3 postoperatively (p <.001). IMA decreased from 15.1 degrees +/- 2.8 preoperatively to 6.5 degrees +/- 2.4 postoperatively (p <.001). The main complication reported was stiffness (10.4 %). Conclusion: SERI technique applied to severe HV showed positive clinical and radiological outcomes. A careful patient selection and a low grade first MTPJ arthritis are essential to obtain favorable results. Level of evidence: IV. (c) 2023 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.