<prompt> The most important determinant of a successful outcome following surgery for hallux valgus is:Thorough preoperative assessmentThe technical skill of the surgeonThe management during the first 2 postoperative weeksThe long-term management  <response>: Ans. A. Thorough preoperative assessmentAlthough all the factors listed influence the outcome following surgery for hallux valgus, selection of the wrong patient or the wrong operation is the most frequent error. The decision whether or not to operate must be made on the basis of a comprehensive evaluation that includes assessment of the patients personality and expectations and careful evaluation of preoperative radiographs. 