Radiographic Evaluation on the Forefoot: Based on the Two Different Data (1982 and 2004)

전족부의 방사선학적 관찰: 1982년과 2004년의 차이를 중심으로

Purpose: We compared the bony arrangements of the forefoot in 2 different years, 1982 and 2004, to determine any changes with time period of 22 years. Materials and Methods: The radiographs of 200 normal Korean adults, 100 male and 100 female volunteers, were evaluated both in 1982 and 2004. The radiographic results were evaluated with as follows; hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), morphology of metatarsal head and relative anterior protrusion of the metatarsals and the phalanges. The mean ages were 38 years (23-52years) in 1982, and 37 years (24-50years) in 2004. Results: The mean of HVA decreased from 15.6 degrees in 1982 to 14.3 degrees in 2004 (p=0.047), and the mean of IMA increased from 8.0 degrees in 1982 to 9.4 degrees in 2004 (p=0.031). The morphology of metatarsal head and relative anterior protrusion of the metatarsals and the phalanges were not different between the two study years. Conclusion: Comparing with those of 1982 measurements, we found an increase of IMA and a decrease of HVA. A prospective study may be needed to illuminate course of the changes.