Patient-reported and radiological outcomes of short Scarf osteotomy fixed with a single screw: A prospective study of 271 osteotomies

The Scarf osteotomy involves inherent risks and technical challenges. The short scarf osteotomy with single screw fixation has emerged as an alternative approach. This study aims to evaluate the patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), radiological outcomes, and complications associated with the short scarf osteotomy fixed with a single screw for hallux valgus correction. A prospective cohort study was conducted between October 2018 and October 2023 at a single center, encompassing 271 osteotomies. PROMs were collected prospectively preoperatively and at various postoperative intervals. Radiographic data, including hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA), were measured preoperatively and six weeks postoperatively. Complications were also documented. Statistically significant improvements were observed in all PROMs and were sustained up to 24 months postoperatively. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score demonstrated a significant reduction from 46.97 at baseline to 12.52 at 24 months (p < 0.001). Likewise, the EQ-5D score improved notably from 0.73 preoperatively to 0.81 at 24 months (p = 0.002). Analysis of the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) revealed substantial improvements across its pain, walking/standing, and social interaction domains over the same period, with all changes showing statistical significance (all p < 0.001). Radiographically, the mean HVA improved significantly from 31.33° preoperatively to 13.33° postoperatively (p < 0.001). Similarly, the mean IMA improved significantly from 14.67° to 7.66° (p < 0.001). The most common complication was superficial wound infection, effectively managed with oral antibiotics. The were no cases of avascular necrosis or fracture. In conclusion, the short Scarf osteotomy fixed with a single screw demonstrates favorable outcomes. These findings support its efficacy and safety as a treatment option, with potential advantages over the conventional technique. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings.