Impact of pes planus on clinical outcomes of hallux valgus surgery

Background Pes planus is associated with hallux valgus development. This study evaluated the impact of pes planus on clinical outcomes following hallux valgus surgery. Methods 191 patients underwent Scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus. Pes planus angles including talonavicular coverage angle, lateral talus-first metatarsal angle (Meary’s angle) and lateral talocalcaneal angle were measured. The cohort was stratified into control (0°–4.0°), mild (4.1°–14.9°), moderate (15.0°–30.0°) and severe (> 30.0°) pes planus groups according to Meary’s angle. Clinical outcomes were compared at baseline, 6 months and 24 months. Results There were 78 controls, 95 mild and 18 moderate cases of pes planus. Meary’s angle was independently associated with preoperative hallux valgus angle. Pes planus angles were not associated with pain, AOFAS, SF-36 physical or mental scores. All three groups had similar clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Conclusion Compared to patients with neutral foot arches, those with pes planus presented with more severe hallux valgus deformity but had similar clinical outcomes following surgical correction.