School of Podiatric Medicine - Student Research
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
Spring 4-26-2026
Abstract
Introduction: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for bunion correction has gained popularity due to favorable outcomes and reduced recovery times. However, most MIS techniques rely on commercial instrumentation for osteotomy, reduction, and fixation. This retrospective study evaluates patients treated with a novel tri-planar distal metatarsal osteotomy performed without specialized MIS guides, using only standard surgical tools and a novel device.
Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on 28 patients (31 procedures, including 3 bilateral cases) who underwent MIS bunion correction from 2021 to 2024. The technique involved a 2–3 cm medial incision, transverse osteotomy at the distal surgical neck of the first metatarsal, manual reduction, and fixation with standard plate and screws. No commercial targeting or reduction guides were used. Patients were assessed clinically and radiographically using weight-bearing views at 6 weeks postoperatively. Radiographic parameters included intermetatarsal angle (IM), tibial sesamoid position (TSP), and hallux valgus angle (HV).
Results: All osteotomies achieved union (100% union rate). The average time to return to regular shoe gear was 6.2 weeks. Radiographic outcomes showed an average correction of 1.9 for the tibial sesamoid position, 6.65° in HV angle, and 16.68° in IM angle. The duration of the procedure was comparable to instrument-guided MIS techniques.
Conclusion: This non-instrument guided MIS technique and a novel device for hallux valgus deformity correction is safe, effective, and achieves tri-planar correction with reliable fixation and early weight-bearing. It presents a viable alternative to traditional MIS methods. Further studies are warranted to assess cost-effectiveness and patient satisfaction compared to instrument-guided approaches.
Recommended Citation
Kaafarani, Maya D.; White, Brittney; Hamilton, Graham A.; and Rush, Shannon M., "A Novel Guide‑Free Internal Device Fixation for Transverse Tri‑Planar Distal Metatarsal Osteotomy: A Retrospective Review" (2026). School of Podiatric Medicine - Student Research. 41.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/sopm_mspub/41
