Plantar plate repair and Weil osteotomy for metatarsophalangeal joint instability

This study reviews results of the combined Weil osteotomy and direct plantar plate repair for instability of the lesser metatarsals. Between 6th June 2002 and 4th February 2004, patients with an unstable, or multiple unstable metatarsophalangeal joints, underwent a Weil osteotomy and plantar plate repair operation for degenerative rupture. Thirty-five plantar plate repairs were performed on 23 feet, with or without PIP arthrodesis. Twelve feet also underwent concomitant hallux valgus corrections. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Lesser Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal scale was used for outcome rating. Early reports are promising with satisfactory results in most patients.