Percutaneous Lateral Release in Hallux Valgus

In the last decade, minimally invasive or percutaneous surgery has evolved rapidly through the development of novel techniques. Treatment of hallux valgus deformity is one of the indications for percutaneous surgery, both for bony and soft tissue correction. The release of the structures on the lateral part of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (lateral release) is one of the best indications for percutaneous surgery in the forefoot. In this article, a detailed description of the anatomy of the metatarsophalangeal joint is provided, along with the indications and tips to perform a safe percutaneous lateral release.