Keele Research Repository

Abstract The role of lateral release is widely accepted and regarded as a key step in management of hallux valgus. There remains however debate in literature in regards to which structures should be divided and the method of approach. We therefore developed a technique of lateral release using a curved blade placed inferior to the metatarsal head to divide the lateral metatarsosesamoid suspensory ligament and incise the lateral joint capsule. This technique was performed on fourteen fresh frozen cadaveric specimens which were then dissected. In all cases the lateral metatarsosesamoid suspensory ligament was divided and the lateral capsule incised to the joint line. One case of iatrogenic injury to the oblique head of adductor hallucis tendon was noted. No cases of neurovascular injury were noted. We conclude this method of lateral release to be safe and reproducible in a cadaveric model in achieving lateral release for the management of hallux valgus.