Early results of distal metatarsal osteotomy with K-wire fixation in the treatment of tailor's bunion.

OBJECTIVE: Tailor's bunion deformity is a lateral side bone and soft tissue prominence of the fifth metatarsal bone. The aim of our study was to assess the clinical and radiographic results of distal metatarsal osteotomies in patients with tailor's bunion deformity.

METHODS: This study included 24 feet of 14 patients with tailor's bunion who were treated with distal metatarsal osteotomy of the 5th metatarsal between 2006 and 2009. The mean follow-up time was 24.45 (range: 12 to 47) months. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically, using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring system with weight-bearing anteroposterior and lateral foot radiographs.

RESULTS: Average AOFAS scores of the patients were 64.83 preoperatively and 91.62 at the final follow-up. Three patients had complications; avascular necrosis, delayed union, and superficial wound infection.

CONCLUSION: Distal metatarsal osteotomy is a safe and easy treatment option for the painful tailor's bunion deformity and provides patient satisfaction rate of up to 96%.