Revision Hallux Valgus Surgery

Foot and ankle surgeons routinely perform surgery of the fi rst ray, such as correction of hallux valgus deformity. The complication rate in hallux valgus surgery ranges between 10% and 55%. 1 Although hallux valgus surgery is common, several common complications can occur that necessitate revision. There are several causes of hallux valgus surgery failure; often, potential complications can be avoided by performing a thorough and careful preoperative evaluation of the patient. The presence of preexisting, but unexpected, osteoarthritis of the fi rst metatarsal phalangeal joint (MTP) can lead to postoperative stiffness or arthro fi brosis. Recurrence of a previously corrected condition, hallux varus, avascular necrosis, and bone union problems are all some of the causes of revisional hallux valgus surgery. Excluded in this chapter is the discussion of the following conditions that also lead to complications of hallux valgus surgery: infection, hematoma, nerve injury, thrombophlebitis, complex regional pain syndrome, trauma, and disruption of the soft tissue envelope about the fi rst ray.