Results of Bioabsorbable Screws for the Fixation of Chevron Osteotomy in the Treatment of Hallux Valgus Deformities

Background: This study aimed to investigate the safety and reliability of using bioabsorbable screws for the fixation of chevron osteotomy in the treatment of hallux valgus (HV) deformity.

Methods: Clinical cases of chevron osteotomy in the treatment of HV deformities in our hospital between December 2018 and August 2022 were retrospectively summarised to compare preoperative imaging indices with those at the final follow-up session, including the hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA) and tibial sesamoid position (TSP). The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale, short-form health survey questionnaire (SF-36) and European Foot and Ankle Society (EFAS) scale were used to assess therapeutic efficacy. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess pain relief. Moreover, complications were recorded.

Results: Twenty-six patients (39 feet) were included, and the mean follow-up period was 24.0 months. No infection, delayed healing or non-healing was recorded. The osteotomy ends healed well without non-union or delayed union. Four cases of recurrence (HVA ≥20°), two of numbness in the distal toe, one of necrosis of the first metatarsal head and one of osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint occurred. No patients underwent secondary surgery. The HVA, IMA and TSP significantly reduced at the final follow-up session compared with their preoperative values, and significant improvement was seen in clinical scores.

Conclusion: The use of bioabsorbable screws for the fixation of chevron osteotomy is safe and effective in the treatment of HV deformities.