Radiological and Functional Outcomes of Fourth-Generation MIS Hallux Valgus Correction (META) in an Indian Population

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Surgery

Background:

• Hallux valgus (HV) correction traditionally uses over 150 open operative techniques.
• Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) for HV offers reduced soft tissue dissection, shorter surgical time, and faster recovery.
• Fourth-generation MIS, META (metaphyseal extra-articular transverse and Akin), corrects rotational deformities alongside HV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of the fourth-generation META technique for hallux valgus correction in an Indian population.
• To assess the functional and radiological improvements following META surgery for HV.

Main Methods:

• Fifty feet with hallux valgus underwent correction using the fourth-generation META technique.
• Outcomes were assessed at 6 months post-surgery using functional scores (AOFAS-Hallux, VAS) and radiological parameters (HVA, IMA, DMMA).

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in AOFAS-hallux scores (62.1 to 94.56) and a conspicuous decrease in VAS pain scores (5.78 to 1.22).
• Radiological parameters showed significant improvement: HVA decreased (29.4 to 6.1), IMA improved (15.76 to 5.12), and DMMA declined (16.36 to 5.23).
• All observed changes were statistically significant (P values indicated high significance).

Conclusions:

• META is effective for hallux valgus correction in India, demonstrating significant functional and radiological improvements.
• The technique offers advantages like reduced operative time, minimal blood loss, better cosmesis, lower infection risk, less pain, and quicker rehabilitation.
• While META has a steeper learning curve, practice can minimize complications and prevent recurrence.