Modified Scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus deformity in rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: For severe hallux valgus (HV) deformity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) cases, arthrodesis of the 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint has been recommended. However, with the progress of medical treatment of RA, joint preservation surgery has recently been performed. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of modified Scarf osteotomy with medial capsule interposition for RA cases, including severe 1st MTP joint destruction, and to evaluate risk factors for recurrence. Methods: A retrospective observational study of 76 cases (60 patients) [mean follow-up period: 35.3 months (24-56 months)] that underwent the modified Scarf osteotomy was performed. Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) RA foot ankle scale scores, hallux scale scores, and a self-administered foot evaluation questionnaire (SAFE-Q) were evaluated, along with preoperative and postoperative radiographic parameters. Results: The mean JSSF RA foot and ankle and hallux score improved significantly (RA: preoperative: 52.2, final follow-up: 76.9, hallux: preoperative: 38.2, final follow-up: 74.5). Recurrence (hallux valgus angle (HVA) >20°) occurred in 12 feet (15.8%). Preoperative DAS28-CRP (Disease activity score evaluated on 28 joints-C-reactive protein), intermetatarsal angle between the first and second metatarsal bone (M1M2A), and M1M5A, as well as HVA, M1M2A, M1M5A, and Hardy grade at 3 months after surgery, were significantly greater in the recurrence group. There was a significant negative correlation between preoperative DAS28-CRP and JSSF RA foot and ankle scores at final follow-up (ß = -0.39: p=0.02), while there was a significantly positive correlation between preoperative DAS28-CRP and HVA at the final follow-up (ß = 0.44: p=0.001). Conclusion: The modified Scarf osteotomy with medial capsule interposition for HV deformity improved clinical and radiographic outcomes in RA cases with severe 1st MTP joint destruction. Increased preoperative M1M2A and M1M5A, incomplete reduction of the sesamoid bone, HVA, M1M2A, and M1M5A at 3 months after surgery should be kept in mind for recurrence. The preoperative DAS28-CRP score was associated with clinical and radiographic outcomes after surgery.