Effects of Pathological Characteristics on Functional Scores and Surgical Satisfaction in Patients after Hallux Valgus Surgery.

OBJECTIVE

Few studies have explored the relationship between the pathological characteristics of hallux valgus and surgical outcomes. The aim of our study was to report the influence of pathological characteristics such as the tibial sesamoid position (TSP) and first metatarsal pronation on postoperative functional scores and patient satisfaction with hallux valgus surgery.

METHODS

From June 2017 to December 2022, a retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent hallux valgus surgery at our hospital. Anteroposterior (AP) x-ray parameters (hallux valgus angle [HVA], intermetatarsal angle [IMA], distal metatarsal articular angle [DMAA], TSP, first metatarsal pronation, and first metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation) (preoperative weight-bearing, immediate postoperative non-weight-bearing, and early postoperative weight-bearing), visual analog scale (VAS) scores, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot scores, SAFE-Q self-administered foot evaluation questionnaire (excluding the Sports Activity subscale), complications, and patient satisfaction were used to describe the outcomes. Correlation analysis and multiple linear regression models were used to identify factors influencing postoperative functional scores and patient satisfaction after hallux valgus surgery.

RESULTS

Eighty-one patients (92 feet) whose early radiographic parameters and latest follow-up scores improved significantly (p < 0.01) were included in the present study. The overall complication rate was 27.2%, with recurrence being the most common complication (20.7%). Functional scores and patient satisfaction were associated with age; preoperative, immediate postoperative, and early postoperative HVA; and immediate postoperative IMA (p < 0.05), but not with TSP, first metatarsal pronation, DMAA, callosities, toe deformities, or first metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation (p > 0.05). The R values of the multiple linear regression models predicting postoperative functional scores and patient satisfaction ranged from 0.042 to 0.351.

CONCLUSION

TSP and first metatarsal pronation were unrelated to postoperative functional scores or patient satisfaction. This finding enhances surgeons' understanding of the functional prognosis of hallux valgus surgery, particularly aiding in explaining the condition and assessing surgical outcomes.