Scarf Bunionectomy

The Scarf osteotomy, a Z-sloped osteotomy of the first metatarsal, is a well-established and accepted procedure for correcting hallux valgus deformity when combined with a distal soft-tissue procedure. This procedure may be used for a range of moderate-to-severe deformity and can be easily combined with phalanx osteotomies and soft-tissue reconstructions to provide complete correction of deformity of hallux valgus. When properly executed, the Scarf osteotomy is a reliable and versatile procedure that achieves adequate correction while maintaining a low rate of complications and a high degree of patient satisfaction. Patients like this procedure because of the limited postoperative restrictions and rapid and predictable healing. This article will describe the surgical technique, including tips from the author's preferred techniques to obtain proper correction while avoiding common complications, as well as a review of the literature and the case series. The presented results along with the author's experience have shown the Scarf osteotomy to be a great tool in correcting hallux valgus deformity.