Surgical mini-Scarf osteotomy in hallux valgus with biodegradable headless screws fixation

Abstract

The use of biodegradable implants is becoming increasingly popular, especially in operations on small bones of the skeleton, including operations on the anterior part of the foot. 23 surgical interventions were performed to correct the first metatarsal using the mini-Scarf technique and fixation of fragments with a biodegradable implant. All the operated patients did not have a severe radiological stage of osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint and stiffness. The results of treatment were evaluated using AOFAS and Groulier questionnaires. Out of 23 patients, it was possible to track and obtain data according to the questionnaires in 18 patients (78.3% (16 had grade III deformity (88.9%)). Six months after surgical treatment, the proportion of excellent and good results was 77.8% (14) according to the AOFAS questionnaire and 83.3% (15) according to the Groulier questionnaire. The achieved results suggest a favorable prognosis for the widespread use of magnesium oxide implants, however, further research and comparison of the results of treatment in patients with hallux valgus who underwent surgery with the use of standard titanium screws are needed.