Changes in Foot Width in Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy

Abstract

Background: Minimally invasive bunionectomy (MISB) has emerged as a popular approach to treat symptomatic hallux valgus deformity. Although previous studies focused on distal foot width changes postsurgery, this research introduces a novel midshaft measurement to evaluate proximal transverse midfoot width, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of foot changes post-MISB. Methods: A retrospective review of 44 HV patients from an institutional registry was conducted. Demographic data, surgical details, radiographs, and foot width measurements were collected. Changes in hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were also measured. Results: Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) demonstrated good to excellent interobserver reliability (all ICCs > 0.70) for all measurements. MISB resulted in a consistent reduction in distal foot width ( P < .001). These reductions correlated with changes in HVA and IMA, suggesting that the extent of deformity correction influenced distal foot width: distal bone width decreased an average of 8 mm, P < .001). However, midshaft bony width increased an average of 4 mm, P < .001). Changes in midshaft foot width showed no correlation with HVA or IMA alterations. Conclusion: We found in this cohort of 44 patients that MISB for HV leads to an expected decrease in distal bony foot width but, on average, an increase in midshaft foot width.