Scarf osteotomy.

ABSTRACT

The term scarf osteotomy was first used by Weil when presenting his results from more than 1000 cases. Scarf is a carpentry term describing beveling the ends of 2 pieces of wood and securely fastening them so that they overlap to create one continuous piece. This technique was popularized by Weil and Barouk as a versatile method of correcting hallux valgus while maintaining the blood supply to the metatarsal head. It also has rigid fixation, allowing early mobilization. This article addresses the surgical technique of the scarf osteotomy together with the results and complications of hallux valgus correction.