Hallux valgus correction utilising a modified short scarf osteotomy with a magnesium biodegradable or titanium compression screws – a comparative study of clinical outcomes

BACKGROUND: Biodegradable implants reduce the likelihood of further surgery for hardware removal and reduce the risks of associated infection and allergy. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy and determine the comparability of biodegradable magnesium alloy MgYREZr (MAGNEZIX® CS) compression screw fixation compared with standard titanium screw fixation in the surgical treatment of hallux valgus deformity. METHODS: Eleven patients undergoing corrective surgery for hallux valgus utilising biodegradable magnesium screws and a control group of 25 patients undergoing corrective hallux valgus surgery with standard titanium screws were reviewed at a median of 19 months (range 12–30 months). PROM scores (Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), Foot and Ankle Outcomes Instrument (FAOI) and the EQ-5D-3 L) were recorded preoperatively and at latest follow-up. RESULTS: The results between the two groups were broadly similar, with the Magnesium and Titanium patients showing similar patterns in the various domains in the MOXFQ, the FAOI and the EQ-5D-3 L. Most patients reported a near full shoe comfort score, and EQ-5D-3 L scores were significantly improved in both patient groups (with most patients reporting a full score). Foot pain and foot function improved irrespective of the scoring systems and patients in both groups demonstrated significantly improved scores following the surgery (p < 0.05). Notably, there were no significant differences when comparing the post-operative scores between the groups for any individual scoring parameter. No impairment to quality of life was recorded. There were no intra or post-operative complications. There were no problems encountered through the use of the bioabsorbable screws. CONCLUSION: Biodegradable magnesium-based compression screws appeared to be safe in this study and are an effective fixation device in the treatment of hallux valgus deformity with clinical outcomes similar to standard titanium screw fixation.