Correction osteotomy of the first phalanx of the great toe (Akin osteotomy)

Abstract

The osteotomy of the first phalanx of the great toe has been described by Akin as early as in 1925. Since that time this technique and its modifications have been widely in clinical use and were mostly described as additional correction manoeuvre combined with standard metatarsal osteotomies like scarf or chevron osteotomies. As the so-called Akin osteotomy mostly is used as a surplus procedure scientific evaluation of this osteotomy itself can rarely be found. Different fixation techniques like k-wire-, wire, staple-thermo-staple-or screw-fixations are in use.The result are the follow up of 135 patients out of more than 200 operated patients treated with forefoot realignemant procedure because of hallux valgus with a follow up of at least 1 year.