CompletedObservational

Fusion surgery for bunions gives improvement in pain and function

This study investigates a type of surgery for painful bunions, also known as hallux valgus. This surgery, called 'fusion,' joins the big toe joint permanently. For severe bunions, this fusion is often preferred over other treatments in some hospitals. Researchers want to see how patients who had this fusion surgery between 2016 and 2021 in NHS Tayside are doing. They are looking at how much pain they have and how well they can use their foot by asking them to fill out questionnaires before and after their operation. The aim is to find out if this fusion surgery is a safe and effective way to treat bunions.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

NHS Tayside

Enrolment target

Start

22 Jan 2016

Estimated completion

10 Jun 2021

Hallux valgus

What is this study about?

You might have heard of bunions, or perhaps you have one yourself. They are a common and often painful problem where the big toe bends inwards towards the other toes. Our feet are quite complex, and sometimes surgery is needed to help with bunions, especially if they cause a lot of pain and make it hard to walk or wear shoes.

One type of surgery for bunions is called 'fusion.' This procedure involves joining the bones of the main big toe joint together permanently. Doctors consider this a good option for people with more severe bunions. This study focuses specifically on this fusion surgery. The medical team at NHS Tayside wants to understand how well patients are doing after this operation, specifically regarding changes in their pain levels and how well they can use their foot in daily life.

The main goal of this research is to see if fusion surgery is a good choice for bunions. By looking at how patients feel and function after the surgery, the study aims to confirm if it's both safe and effective. This information can then help doctors decide on the best treatment for future patients with similar bunion problems.

Key takeaways

The study looks at fusion surgery for bunions (hallux valgus).
It aims to see if this surgery reduces pain and improves foot function.
Participants fill out questionnaires about their health before and after surgery.
The study includes adults who had fusion surgery at NHS Tayside between 2016-2021.
Your input helps doctors understand treatment effectiveness for future patients.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for people who have already had a specific type of bunion surgery.

You might be able to be part of this study if you are 16 years old or older and had fusion surgery for your bunion (hallux valgus) at an NHS Tayside hospital between January 2016 and July 2021.

Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to join if there isn't enough information about your operation in your hospital records.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 16 years old or older?
Did you have fusion surgery for a bunion (hallux valgus)?
Was your surgery performed at an NHS Tayside hospital?
Did you have this surgery between January 2016 and July 2021?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you are eligible and agree to take part, your involvement will be quite straightforward. The study mainly involves filling out questionnaires about your general health and how your feet are feeling and functioning. You would complete one questionnaire before your surgery. Then, after your surgery, you'd complete a few more questionnaires at specific times: one at about 26 weeks (roughly 6 months), another at 52 weeks (about 1 year), and a final one at 104 weeks (about 2 years). There are no extra doctor visits or new medications involved, as the study is looking at the results of surgery you've already had.

Potential risks and benefits

Since this study is looking back at outcomes of surgery you've already had, there are very few direct risks to you. Your involvement primarily means completing questionnaires. The main benefit is that your experiences will help doctors understand if this particular bunion surgery is a good and effective treatment. This insight can help improve care for other people with bunions in the future. You are always free to decide not to participate, or to withdraw from the study at any time, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

NHS Tayside
City only
Dundee, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is 'hallux valgus'?

Hallux valgus is the medical name for what is commonly known as a bunion – a painful condition where the big toe moves out of alignment and points towards the other toes.

What is 'fusion surgery'?

Fusion surgery for a bunion means the bones of the main big toe joint are permanently joined together to correct its position and reduce pain.

Do I have to take new medicines?

No, this study does not involve taking any new medicines. It's about looking at the results of a surgery you've already had.

How long will I be involved?

Your involvement lasts about two years, which is the period over which you'd complete follow-up questionnaires after your surgery.

Who is paying for this study?

This study is being funded by the researchers themselves, and not by a large company.

How to find out more

Rebecca Lewis

rebecca.lewis71@nhs.net +44 (0)1382 660111 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.