Acquired hallux varus: a preventable and correctable disorder

Acquired hallux varus deformity of either the static or the dynamic type results from surgery to correct hallux valgus deformity and the accompanying bunion. The dynamic type is disfiguring, uncomfortable, and disappointing to the patient and surgeon alike. Linear as well as rotational forces are at work to produce the deformity. When recognized early, before fixation of the first digit has occurred in the deviated and clawed position, resection of the base of the proximal phalanx will correct the deformity. More radical treatment is required in the patient who is treated late. The experience with seven feet of five patients with acquired hallux varus deformity is presented here.