ReveL Osteotomy
The ReveL osteotomy (reversed L = L inverted) is a cut made in the bone of the 1st metatarsus (also at the level of the 5th metatarsus) aimed at correcting a deformation in hallux valgus or a bunionette. The cut is made just in front of the metatarsal head and represents an inverted L. This technique was developed by Dr. Patrick Vienne and his team in the early 2000s when he was chief medical officer of the foot and ankle department at the Balgrist University Orthopedic Clinic in Zurich. The technique and the first clinical results have been published in specialized international journals (see "publications"). This osteotomy has the advantage of being able to correct very pronounced hallux valgus deformations while maintaining joint mobility and avoiding having to block a midfoot joint, as is the case in other techniques more invasive. The osteotomy is performed by minimally invasive open surgery. Unlike percutaneous surgery (mini-incision), the ReveL osteotomy restores normal anatomy at the level of the joint of the big toe by correcting the orientation of the articular surface, a determining factor in correcting the hallux valgus, ensuring a stable result over time and limiting the risk of recurrence. The osteotomy is fixed using two titanium screws buried in the bone. A second removal of the screws is only rarely necessary. This osteotomy is inherently very stable and allows a total load of the foot in a shoe with rigid sole from the day of the operation.