Prospective Study of Minimally Invasive Lapidus Procedure for Hallux Valgus Deformities

The two procedures, with and without arthroscopy, only differ by the method of assessing cartilage removal. Cartilage removal will be assessed arthroscopically in the procedure with arthroscopy. In the procedure without arthroscopy, cartilage removal will be assessed via direct visualization through a mini arthrotomy procedure. After use of the cartilage burr the surgeon will make a small dorsal portal and use this opening to ensure that the cartilage is removed and all debris removed. The incision will be 2 cm long and centered over the dorsal medial aspect of the joint.

After removal of the cartilage with the cartilage burr, a 3.0 arthroscope will be inserted to inspect the joint for all cartilage removal. Any residual cartilage pieces will be removed to ensure complete cartilage debridement from the subchondral bone and fragments removed from the joint.