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Lapidus Arthrodesis for Correction of Hallux Valgus Deformity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Waehner M, Klos K, Polzer H, Ray R, Lorchan Lewis T, Waizy H

Foot & ankle specialist, 2026

1,176 participants

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare different fixation methods to achieve Tarsometatarsal joint I (TMT-1) arthrodesis in patients with hallux valgus regarding radiographic correction, complication profile, and clinical outcomes.

METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis included primary literature results of evidence level 1 to 3 studies in German and English. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established and applied, along with parameters suitable for comparison of data.

RESULTS: 16 studies with a total of 1176 participants met the inclusion criteria for this analysis. Twelve evaluation criteria were compared among 3 fixation techniques; comprised of a screw-only, dorsomedial plating- and plantar plating cohort. There was no statistical difference in deformity correction (both intermetatarsal- and hallux valgus angle), or AOFAS score between the cohorts. The complication rate was 13% in the plantar-, 19.5% in the dorsomedial-, and 24.5% in the screw cohort. Nonunion was seen in 0.7% of participants in the plantar, 1.4% in the dorsomedial, and 5.3% in the screw group. The time until complete weightbearing correlated positively with the development of nonunion, with a coefficient of 0.376 (P = .009). Hardware removal was performed in 11.8% of patients in the dorsomedial cohort, 7.7% in the screw cohort, and 3.6% in the plantar cohort.

CONCLUSION: Based on the results of meta-analysis of heterogeneous studies, plantar plating facilitated…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,176 participants or records.

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