US Patent 10342590 Tarsal-metatarsal joint procedure utilizing fulcrum

A technique for correcting a bone deformity, such as a bunion, may be performed using a fulcrum. In some examples, the technique involves inserting a fulcrum between a first metatarsal that is anatomically misaligned with respect to a second metatarsal. The technique further includes preparing an end of the first metatarsal and preparing an end of a medial cuneiform opposing the end of the first metatarsal. In addition, a distal portion of the first metatarsal is moved toward the second metatarsal in a transverse plane, thereby pivoting a proximal portion of the first metatarsal about the fulcrum and reducing an intermetatarsal angle between the first metatarsal and the second metatarsal.