Magnesium-based bioabsorbable screw fixation for hallux valgus surgery - A suitable alternative to metallic implants

Background: The primary aim of this pilot study was to prospectively evaluate outcomes of the MgYREZr bioabsorbable screw in the setting of hallux valgus corrective surgery. The secondary aim was to compare the outcomes against a control group treated with conventional titanium screws. Methods: A consecutive series of patients with hallux valgus deformity (n = 24) underwent forefoot reconstruction surgery with a scarf osteotomy to the first metatarsal using MgYREZr screws. Functional scores, radiological outcomes, and complication profile were recorded over 12 months. Results were compared against a control group of patients (n = 69) using titanium alloy screws. Results: At 1-year post-operative, both functional and radiological outcomes showed significant improvements. Compared to the control group, there was no significant difference in functional outcomes, yet radiological improvements were significantly better in the control group. Conclusions: The MgYREZr bioabsorbable screw is a suitable alternative to titanium alloy screws for hallux valgus corrective surgery. (C) 2018 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.