Treatment of hallux valgus by Scarf osteotomy - rates and reasons for recurrence and rates of avascular necrosis: A systematic review

Abstract

We reviewed the rates of and reasons for hallux valgus (HV) recurrence and the rates of avascular necrosis following Scarf osteotomy. We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase databases for studies reporting operative management of HV using Scarf osteotomy. The primary endpoints were reasons for and rates of HV recurrence. The secondary endpoint was the rate of avascular necrosis. We included 15 studies with 946 operations for HV. Seven studies reported no recurrence, six reported recurrence rates of 3.6-11.3%, one reported a recurrence rate of 30%, and one reported a recurrence rate of 78%. Thirteen studies (678 feet) reported other complications from Scarf osteotomy without avascular necrosis. Although HV recurrence is not uncommon following Scarf osteotomy, patient-related factors, surgical competence, and longer follow-up are more likely to be associated with recurrence. Avascular necrosis is an infrequent complication in HV patients treated using Scarf osteotomy.