Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune
disease that frequently causes foot deformities, decreasing mobility and quality of life.
Although surgical interventions seek to alleviate these alterations, the long-term experiences of patients have not been deeply explored. The aim of this study was to describe the
experiences of patients with RA undergoing osteoarticular surgery to correct acquired foot
deformities. Materials and Method: A qualitative study design was used with structured
interviews including 19 patients with RA treated in a specialised rheumatology service. The
thematic analysis was carried out using the Braun and Clarke thematic analysis, ensuring
compliance with ethical standards and the anonymity of the participants. Results: Five
main themes were identified: experience with pain before and after surgery; impact on
functional capacity; complications and need for additional surgeries; emotional impact
and quality of life; overall satisfaction with the surgery. While many patients reported
significant pain reduction and functional improvements, others faced recurrences of the
deformities, persistent pain, and post-surgical complications. Emotional responses ranged
from well-being to frustration, depending on surgical outcomes. The five-year follow-up
period allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the long-term impact of surgery. The
recurrence rate of deformities was notable, and the emotional impact of these recurrences
was significant, with patients expressing frustration and distress in some cases. Conclusions:
The patients’ experiences were heterogeneous, with both positive and negative outcomes.
These findings underscore the importance of individualized management and comprehensive follow-up that consider the clinical outcomes, expectations, and emotional well-being
of RA patients undergoing foot surgery
