Comparing the Results of Using Bioabsorbable Magnesium Screw with Those Using a Titanium Screw for the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Hallux Valgus: Short-term Follow-Up / 대한족부족관절학회지

ABSTRACT

Purpose@#Hallux valgus (HV) is a common foot deformity that causes pain in the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Distal metatarsal osteotomies are commonly performed as a treatment. This retrospective study compared the clinical and radiological results of bioabsorbable magnesium (Mg) versus titanium (Ti) screw fixation for modified distal chevron osteotomy in HV. @*Materials and Methods@#Forty-nine patients, who underwent modified distal chevron osteotomy for HV in 2018 and 2019, were reviewed retrospectively. Bioabsorbable Mg screw fixation was applied in 20 patients (22 feet), and a traditional Ti compression screw was applied in 29 patients (40 feet). The patients were followed up for at least six months. The clinical results were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal (AOFAS-MTP-IP) scale and a visual analogue scale (VAS). The hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) were measured before, after surgery, and at the six months follow-up. @*Results@#The AOFAS-MTP-IP scale and VAS points were improved in both groups, with no significant difference between them. At the six-month follow-up, HVA, IMA, and DMAA were similar. Bone union was confirmed in both groups, and there were no significant major complications in both groups. Four people in the Ti screw group underwent implant removal surgery. @*Conclusion@#Bioabsorbable Mg screws showed comparable clinical, radiologic results to Ti standard screws six months after distal modified chevron osteotomy. These screws are an alternative fixation material that can be used safely and avoid the need for implant removal operations.