BackgroundIt is unclear whether lateral soft tissue release (LSTR) is required as part of percutaneous hallux valgus (PHV) surgery. The primary aim of this systematic review was to assess whether LSTR reduces the risk of recurrence of hallux valgus deformity. The secondary aims were to assess if LSTR increases the risk of complications, improves the clinical outcome and leads to a greater radiographic correction.MethodsWe performed a PRISMA-compliant PROSPERO-registered systematic review, pooling clinical papers reporting results after PHV surgery into two categories (PHV with (Group 1, G1) and without LSTR (Group 2, G2)) and comparing them. Data regarding the study design, demographics, the surgical procedure and the clinical and radiological outcome were extracted and compared. Risk of bias was assessed using the modified Coleman Methodology Score (mCMS).ResultsSixteen studies were selected (G1:594 feet; G2:553 feet). The pooled proportion of recurrence at a minimum 21-month follow-up (2%, 95%CI 0–3 vs 2%, 95%CI 0–5;p= 0.70) did not differ in the two groups. Similarly, the pooled proportion of complications (27%, 95%CI 17–38 vs 25%, 95%CI 12–37;p= 0.79) was similar. The pre- (p= 0.23) and post-operative AOFAS scores (p= 0.16), the pre-(HVA:p= 0.23) (IMA:p= 0.94) and post-operative radiological angles (HVA:p= 0.47) (IMA:p= 0.2) and the methodological quality of studies (p= 0.2) did not differ either between G1 and G2.ConclusionThere is no evidence that LSTR performed during percutaneous HV surgery reduces the risk of recurrence of the deformity at a mean 4-year follow-up nor improves the clinical and radiological outcome.Level of evidenceLevel IV systematic review of Level I to IV studies.