Metatarsal Frontal-Plane Rotation

Pronation of the 1st Metatarsal

Metatarsal Rotation Matters

While hallux valgus has traditionally been viewed as a transverse plane deformity, research indicates that it is actually a three-plane deformity with 87% of patients having abnormal frontal-plane rotation (i.e. pronation) of the 1st metatarsal.¹ Correction of metatarsal rotation is critical for restoration of anatomic first ray alignment (MTP joint congruity and sesamoid position), which left unaddressed, is linked to high rates of radiographic recurrence.^2,3 Due to the ability to address the triplanar deformity at its origin, the 1st tarsometarsal (TMT) joint provides the optimal surgical site for true anatomic restoration.

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1. Kim Y, Kim JS, Young KW, et al. Foot Ankle Int. 2015, 36:944-52.
2. Pentikainen I, Ojala R, Ohtonen P, et al. Foot Ankle Int. 2014, 35:1262-7.
3. Okuda R, Kinoshita M, Yasuda T, et al. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2009, 91:1637-4