title: Custom-molded orthotics in postoperative hallux valgus immobilization.
abstract: Bunion surgery is one of the most frequently performed operations on the foot. The majority of established procedures use some form of soft tissue manipulation with or without an osteotomy as the means of achieving correction. Long-term success depends on operative technique and adequate postoperative immunobilization. The authors describe a custom-molded thermoplast splint that effectively maintains hallux position in the healing phase of hallux valgus surgery. It is easy to construct, comfortable to wear, and has several advantages over other forms of immobilization.
authors.affiliation: Dept of Orthopedic Surgery, Louisiana State University Med Ctr, New Orleans 70112.
authors.forename: K C
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Donatto
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Rightor
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: D'Ambrosia
mesh_terms: D006215:Hallux Valgus / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000379:methods*; D013165:Splints