Hallux metatarsophalangeal joint fusion for the rheumatoid forefoot

Forefoot problems in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis are common. The progressive joint destruction causes a redistribution of weight about the forefoot, with a diminished weightbearing capacity of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Changes around the first MTP joint include synovitis, joint instability with subluxation, and arthritic change. Hallux MTP fusion in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis acts to permanently restore alignment and restore the medial column support of the foot, while at the same time enabling the first MTP to resume its original weightbearing role. Rheumatoid hallux MTP fusion and its rationale are reviewed.     

Fusion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in forefoot arthroplasty

Forefoot arthroplasty is often recommended for the management of metatarsalgia secondary to rheumatoid arthritis. Concurrently, the first metatarsophalangeal (MP) joint can be fused rather than excised. The results in 37 patients with 64 arthroplasty operations (34 with fusion and 30 with excision of the first joint) show that fusion produced a better cosmetic appearance of the foot, facilitated fitting with normal shoes, and improved overall balance. Pedobarograph measurements during gait indicated that relatively more weight was transmitted through the medial ray when the first metatarsophalangeal joint was fused. Residual pain in the foot was often caused by irregular trimming of the metatarsals. There was no difference in relief of pain between fused and unfused patients. Failure of fusion at the first metatarsophalangeal joint generally was painless. Radiologic degeneration of the interphalangeal (IP) joint of the great toe was relatively common following fusion. MP joint fusion is inadvisable if there is already disease in the IP joint.     

Resection arthroplasty of the rheumatoid forefoot

After discussing the term of resection arthroplasty of the rheumatoid forefoot, the problem of indications and contraindications for surgery is dealt with. Experience obtained by operations is presented together with the recommended operative technique.     

第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗类风湿关节炎致前足畸形

 目的 探讨采用第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗类风湿关节炎致前足畸形的效果。方法 回顾性分析2007年6月至2010年10月采用第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗19例(35足)类风湿关节炎致前足畸形患者资料,男2例(4足),女17例(31足);年龄33～73岁,平均56岁。患者均有不同程度外翻锤状趾畸形和跖痛。采用美国足踝外科协会(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society,AOFAS)趾、跖趾、趾间关节评分及视觉模拟(visual analogue scale,VAS)评分评价手术效果。在术前及术后X线片上测量外翻角(hallux valgus angle,HVA)及第一、二跖骨间角(intermetatarsal angle,IMA),了解畸形矫正情况。结果 术后17例(32足)患者获得平均42个月随访,患足外形均得到不同程度改善;29足跖痛完全消失;3足出现第五跖骨外侧转移性跖痛,经垫前足减压垫缓解。1足因趾末节部分坏死而切除。成形的跖趾关节均有不同程度僵硬。AOFAS评分、VAS评分、HVA及IMA度数,术前分别为(46．82±6．13)分、(9.03±1.82)分、38.96°±10.13°、15.87°±3.43°,末次随访时为(84.25±2.87)分、(2.12±0.67)分、15.84°±5.12°、10.35°±1.67°。根据AOFAS评分,优23足,良5足,可4足,优良率为87.5%(28/32)。结论 第一跖趾关节融合联合二至五跖趾关节成形治疗类风湿关节炎致前足畸形效果优良,术后能明显矫正畸形,缓解疼痛,改善功能。     

第一跖趾关节融合术与成形术治疗类风湿前足畸形疗效的系统评价

 目的 比较第一跖趾关节融合术与成形术治疗类风湿前足畸形的临床疗效。方法 计算机检索PubMed(1990年1月至2012年6月)、CNKI(1990年1月至2012年6月)、OVID(1996年1月至2012年6月)、中国生物医学文献光盘数据库、EMBASE(1966年1月至2012年6月)、万方数据库(1990年1月至2012年6月)和Cochrane Library(2011年第3期),搜集第一跖趾关节融合术与关节成形术比较治疗类风湿前足畸形的随机对照研究,对纳入的文献选择患者满意度、趾区负重、AOFAS穿鞋评分、外观评分、足功能指数评分、外翻角、第一、二跖骨间角、手术时间、并发症作为系统评价的指标。采用RevMan 5.1进行分析。结果 共纳入5项研究,285例患者。Meta分析显示：第一跖趾关节融合术的AOFAS穿鞋评分、外观评分优于第一跖趾关节成形术［MD=-0.88,95%CI(-1.55,-0.22),P=0.010;MD=-5.04,95%CI(-8.94,-1.14),P=0.01］,矫正第一、二跖骨间角、外翻角的能力较成形组好［MD=1.43,95%CI(0.37,2.48),P=0.008;MD=13.27,95%CI(11.44,15.09),P< 0.00001］、并发症少［OR=2.32,95%CI(1.06,5.05),P=0.03］。而患者满意度、足功能指数评分,两组疗效相当。结论 第一跖趾关节融合术联合二至五趾跖骨头切除成形术治疗类风湿前足畸形,可有效缓解疼痛、改善足的外观及功能、术后并发症少,其疗效优于第一跖趾关节成形术。     

类风湿性关节炎前足畸形重建手术的近期疗效

目的探讨类风湿性关节炎前足畸形的手术治疗方法及近期疗效。方法 2007年1月-2009年8月,采用第1跖趾关节融合术联合第2～5跖趾关节成形术治疗7例类风湿性关节炎前足畸形女性患者。年龄56～71岁,平均62岁。病程5～30年,平均16年。患者均表现为双足外翻,第2～5趾合并锤状趾或槌状趾畸形,其中5足合并第2跖趾关节半脱位。根据美国矫形足踝协会(AOFAS)改良标准评分为(36.9±6.4)分。术前负重位X线片测量,第1跖趾关节外翻角度(46±5)°,第1、2跖骨间夹角(12±2)°。结果术后切口均Ⅰ期愈合。术后3～4个月X线片复查示第1跖趾关节达骨性融合。7例均获随访,随访时间2～4年,平均2.9年。患者跛行步态均较术前明显改善,行走时足部疼痛明显缓解。术后3个月X线片测量第1跖趾关节外翻角度为(17±4)°,第1、2跖骨间夹角为(11±2)°,与术前比较差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。术后2年根据AOFAS改良标准评分为(85.3±5.1)分,与术前比较差异有统计学意义(t=4.501,P=0.001)。1例于术后4年前足转移性跖骨痛复发,继续随访中未作特殊处理。结论第1跖趾关节融合术联合第2～5跖趾关节成形术治疗类风湿性关节炎前足畸形,可获得较好外翻矫形,重塑前足负重面,有效缓解行走时疼痛。     

Arthrodesis compared to Mayo resection of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in total rheumatoid forefoot reconstruction

BACKGROUND: Painful forefoot deformity from rheumatoid arthritis can be treated with resection of the lesser metatarsal heads combined with either resection or arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. METHODS: In a prospective, randomized study we compared arthrodesis of first MTP joint with Mayo resection as part of total forefoot reconstruction in patients with painful forefoot deformity from rheumatoid arthritis. The lesser metatarsal heads were resected and extensor tenotomy was done in all patients. Thirty-one patients were randomized to either the arthrodesis or resection group. RESULTS: After a mean followup of 36 (26 to 52) months, the median subjective satisfaction score was 96 points out of 100 in the resection group and 92 points in the arthrodesis group. Significant improvements in pain, handicap, and activity according to Foot Function Index (FFI) were found in both groups (p <0.001 except for handicap in resection group and activity in fusion group were p=0.02). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in these measures, nor in the patients' willingness to have the procedure again. There were no recurrences of prominences or tenderness under the forefoot in either group and no recurrence of severe hallux valgus in the resection group. The arthrodeses healed in 93%. There was no higher risk for clinically relevant IP joint symptoms after arthrodesis. The operating time was significantly longer in the arthrodesis group but this was not linked to a higher wound infection rate. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that Mayo resection may still be a good choice for the first MTP joint in total forefoot reconstruction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.     

Rheumatoid forefoot reconstruction: 1st metatarsophalangeal fusion and excision arthroplasty of lesser metatarsal heads

This is a retrospective review of 66 feet (mean follow-up of 3 years) in 43 patients with painful severe rheumatoid forefoot deformities. All were treated by arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint through a dorsomedial incision and excision of the lesser metatarsal heads through a separate plantar approach. The mean post-operative AOFAS scores were 65.94 (range: 32 to 82). The mean post-operative Foot Function Index (FFI) was 0.47 (range: 0.23 to 0.63). Eighty five percent (57/67 feet) reported excellent or good pain relief, improved cosmetic appearance, and improved footwear comfort. The mean hallux valgus angles improved from 39 degrees to 16 degrees and the intermetatarsal angle from 16 degrees to 8 degrees. Five feet had nonunion of the 1st MTP joint arthrodesis. There were five re-operations for non-union of the 1st MTP joint arthrodesis. The success of the operation as evidenced by this study depends upon attention to metatarsal length harmonisation, stabilisation of the 1st MTP joint and thereby even distribution of loading of the forefoot. The poor results in this study were as a result of a failure to secure the stability of the 1st MTP joint.     

Arthrodesis versus Mayo resection: the management of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in reconstruction of the rheumatoid forefoot

In a prospective randomised study 31 patients were allocated to either arthrodesis or Mayo resection of the first metatarsophalangeal joint as part of a total reconstruction of the rheumatoid forefoot. Of these, 29 were re-examined after a mean of 72 months (57 to 80), the Foot Function Index was scored and any deformity measured. Load distribution was analysed using a Fscan mat in 14 cases, and time and distance were measured in 12 of these patients using a 3D Motion system. We found excellent patient satisfaction and a significant, lasting reduction of the Foot Function Index, with no statistically significant differences between the groups. There were no significant differences in recurrence of the deformity, the need for special shoes, gait velocity, step length, plantar moment, mean pressure or the position of the centre of force under the forefoot. The cadence was higher and the stance phase shorter in the fusion group. These results suggest that a Mayo resection may be an equally good option for managing the first metatarsophalangeal joint in reconstruction of the rheumatoid forefoot.     

Hallux metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis: various techniques

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was first described over 100 years ago and is still considered by many surgeons to be the most appropriate procedure for hallux rigidus. The technique is associated with unwelcome side-effects, which should be appreciated to achieve the most satisfactory results. The aim of this article is to discuss the development of various techniques and their advantages over arthroplasty procedures.     

Hallux valgus and cartilage degeneration in the first metatarsophalangeal joint

This study relates the extent of cartilage lesions within the first metatarsophalangeal joint to hallux valgus. We prospectively examined 265 first metatarsophalangeal joints of 196 patients with a mean age of 54.2 years at operation for the existence of cartilage lesions. Grade I lesions were found in 41 feet (15.5%), grade II in 82 (30.9%), grade III in 51 (19.3%), grade IV in 20 (7.5%). Only 71 (26.8%) showed no cartilage lesion. Cartilage lesions were found within the metatarsosesamoid and metatarsophalangeal compartments in 66 feet (34.0%), within the metatarsophalangeal compartment in 26 (13.4%) and within the metatarsosesamoid compartment in 102 (52.6%). A statistically significant correlation was found between the grade of cartilage lesion and the hallux valgus angle, both for the changes within the metatarsophalangeal and the metatarsosesamoid joints.     

Double-stem silicone implant arthroplasty of all metatarsophalangeal joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Double-stem silicone implants have been used to reconstruct destroyed hallux metatarsophalangeal joints (MTPJ) for many years. When smaller implants became available, they were used to reconstruct the lateral four MTPJ. An arthroplasty of all MTPJ was performed using these implants in 44 patients (72 feet) with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The mean age of patients was 46 years (range, 21 to 66) and 84% were female. Previous surgery had been performed on 28% of the feet. All patients were followed prospectively for an average of 67 months (range, 36 to 111). The patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically; results were recorded on a standardized foot form that allowed computer analysis of the data. The results showed improvement in the hallux valgus angle from 41.6 degrees to 16.1 degrees postoperatively, with no loss of correction over time. Similarly, other forefoot deformities, such as plantar callus and lateral toe abnormalities, all improved both clinically and radiographically. The pain, walking, and function scores all improved, with the greatest improvement being pain relief. Radiographic analysis showed some evidence of fracture in seven hallux (9.7%) and nine lateral toe (3%) implants. Only three toes with implant fracture had some pain at follow-up examination. Three other lateral toe implants were removed for pain. There was no evidence of deep infection or silicone synovitis. Other complications included superficial infection, delayed wound healing, and second surgery for heterotopic bone excision.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Usefulness of bioabsorbable thread pins after resection arthroplasty for rheumatoid forefoot reconstruction

BACKGROUND: Bioabsorbable thread pin has been used for internal fixation of bone. The results of resection arthroplasty of the lesser metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints using internal intramedullary fixation with bioabsorbable pins have not been reported. METHODS: Resection arthroplasty of the MTP joints of the lesser toes with poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) thread pins or Kirschner wires was performed at random in reconstruction of the 87 rheumatoid forefeet (62 patients) with a grommet-protected silicone-rubber implant insertion of the first MTP joint. Clinical symptoms, the state of radiographic changes, and complications were assessed 5-10 years (average, 7.7 years) postoperatively. RESULTS: The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society clinical scores at the preoperative and latest points were 31 and 91, respectively, in the operated patients with PLLA pins, while the mean scores were 32 and 82, respectively, in the operated patients with Kirschner wires. The lesser toes treated by bioabsorbable pins did not become rigid, although they were stable. Recurrent dorsal subluxation of the lesser MTP joints was visible on radiographs in three of the 46 feet with PLLA pins, while two feet had three dislocated MTP joints and one subluxated MTP joint postoperatively and recurrent dorsal subluxation of the lesser MTP joints was visible in four of the 41 feet with Kirschner wires. The postoperative hallux valgus did not progress to the preoperative level during the follow-up period in both groups. Two of the 46 feet with PLLA pins and two of the 41 feet with Kirschner wires had radiographic evidence of silicone synovitis without pathological fracture. Three patients with Kirschner wires had wire-track infection, and one patient had severe circulation disturbance of the corrected lesser toes necessitating wire removal. CONCLUSIONS: A new trial of internal fixation with bioabsorbable pins may lead to the establishment of a safe method for enhancing stability of the lesser toes after resection arthroplasty of the lesser MTP joints.     

Reconstruction of the rheumatoid forefoot.

The authors discuss the forefoot manifestations of RA and their effects on the biomechanics of the foot. Surgical intervention should be performed to alleviate the patient's pain and to restore and maintain stability of the forefoot. Each patient should be considered individually, and the best procedure for him or her should be selected as opposed to one procedure that is applied to all. Furthermore, each patient should be counseled about the progressive nature of his or her disease. Surgery should not be viewed as a cure. Reconstructive surgery can restore function and relieve pain, which is very rewarding for the surgeon and the patient.     

Course of damage to the hallux over 5 years after forefoot resection arthroplasty in rheumatoid arthritis patients

A retrospective study of 34 feet from 20 consecutive patients with rheumatoid arthritis was performed to investigate the development of damage to the hallux over 5 years after forefoot resection arthroplasty. Radiographically we analysed changes in two valgus angles and the interphalangeal joint (IP) damage of the hallux. These parameters were measured preoperatively, 12 months postoperatively, and at the latest follow-up. Although the average HVA (between the first metatarsal and the proximal phalanx) significantly decreased from 38.7 degrees preoperatively to 8.66 degrees postoperatively, the angle increased to 23.0 degrees during the first 12 months following surgery. Further deterioration of the angle at the last follow-up was not detected (25.3 degrees ; P=0.252). The average IPV (between the proximal phalanx and the distal phalanx) angle significantly increased from 6.65 degrees preoperatively to 12.1 degrees 12 months postoperatively and thereafter slightly increased to 13.3 degrees at the latest follow-up. The average of the Sharp/van der Heijde score of the IP joint significantly increased from 5.71 preoperatively to 8.58 12 months postoperatively and thereafter slightly increased to 9.65 at the latest follow-up. The deterioration and destruction process of the hallux after resection arthroplasty occurred soon after surgery, and the progression of the deformity was temporary.     

Hallux rigidus. Excisional arthroplasty

The authors feel that capsular interposition arthroplasty can give predictable pain relief in carefully selected individuals with severe (grade III) hallux rigidus. Attention to the relative lengths of the first and second metatarsals, minimal shortening of the proximal phalanx, and use of the dorsal capsule and EHB tendon as an interposition all contribute to good to excellent objective and subjective results. Approximately 30% of patients undergoing this procedure experience some degree of transfer metatarsalgia postoperatively and probably require orthoses for sports. The authors feel that this operation presents a reasonable alternative to many patients who are candidates for an arthrodesis of the first MTP joint for advanced degenerative disease.