The Endolog technique for moderate to severe hallux valgus treatment: Clinical and radiographic analysis of 194 patients

Abstract

Background: Endolog is an intra-medullary titanium device used for a minimally-invasive hallux valgus correction. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of this device.

Methods: A retrospective study with a prospective data collection was conducted. Patients underwent to Endolog procedures from September 2009 to April 2017 were enrolled. Mild HV deformity (HVA ≤ 19° and IMA ≤ 13°) or associated procedure to Endolog technique were excluded. The radiological (HVA, IMA and PASA) and clinical (AOFAS score) pre and post-operative data were compared through Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test.

Results: 194 feet (144 moderate and 50 severe HV) underwent HV correction respecting study's criteria. AOFAS scores significantly improved from 31.0 ± 12.7 points preoperatively to 88.5 ± 8.0 at 24 months. Even all radiographic measurements significantly improved during 2 years' follow-up. Only 6 patients experienced complications: 4 cases of HV recurrence and 2 cases of intolerance device-related pain.

Conclusions: Endolog technique proved to be a valid option in the moderate-to-severe hallux valgus treatment, comparable to other surgical techniques described in literature.

Keywords: AOFAS score; Distal metatarsal osteotomy; Endolog; Hallux valgus; Minimally invasive surgery.