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An Anatomical Study of Nerves at Risk During Minimally Invasive Hallux Valgus Surgery
Published on: February 17, 2018
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Sensory Nerve Dysfunction and Hallux Valgus Correction: A Prospective Study.
James R Jastifer1, Michael J Coughlin2, Jesse F Doty3
1Borgess Orthopedics, Kalamazoo, MI, USA jrjast@gmail.com.
Foot & Ankle International
|May 9, 2014
Summary
Sensory nerve dysfunction in hallux valgus patients improves after surgery. This suggests nerve injury is often reversible, not a surgical complication.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Podiatry
Background:
- Sensory nerve dysfunction is a known issue in hallux valgus patients.
- It can be a symptom of the deformity or a complication of treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify nerve dysfunction in hallux valgus patients.
- To evaluate the impact of surgical correction versus surgical trauma on sensory nerve function.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 57 hallux valgus patients undergoing surgery.
- Preoperative and 24-month postoperative sensory examinations using Semmes-Weinstein monofilament.
- Measurement of sensory deficit area via imaging software.
Main Results:
- Significant improvement in sensory area deficit observed at 24 months post-surgery (mean reduction of 529 mm²).
- Preoperative mean deficit: 688 mm², 24-month postoperative mean deficit: 159 mm².
- No significant correlation between sensory deficit and clinical outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative sensory deficits in hallux valgus are common and improve post-surgery.
- This improvement supports the idea that nerve injury is often reversible.
- Sensory deficits are not necessarily a complication of the surgical procedure itself.
