First metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis as a treatment for failed hallux valgus surgery

BACKGROUND: The results of first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis as a specific treatment for failed hallux valgus correction has not been previously reported. We evaluated the results of first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis as a treatment for failed hallux valgus surgery. METHODS: The records of the senior author (MJC) were reviewed to identify patients treated for symptomatic failed hallux valgus procedures with arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint over a 20-year period. Twenty-nine patients (33 feet) were available for followup examination. The patients completed a visual analog pain score, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hallux Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale, and a patient satisfaction scale at the final followup. Radiographs were obtained of both feet. RESULTS: The average followup was 8 (1 to 22) years. The average pain score improved from 7 to 3 points. The mean AOFAS score was 73 points at followup. Patient satisfaction was excellent for 13 feet (39%), good in 11 (33%), fair in eight (24%), and poor in one (3%). The mean hallux valgus angle was 16 degrees, with an intermetatarsal angle of 8 degrees. There were three asymptomatic and one symptomatic nonunions. Twenty-two feet (67%) had corrective procedures performed on the lesser toes at the time of the first MTP joint arthrodesis. CONCLUSIONS: First MTP joint arthrodesis is a reliable option for revision after failure of surgical treatment of hallux valgus. This procedure can be used to treat a number of failure modes following initial hallux valgus surgery including recurrence, hallux varus, cock-up deformity, degenerative arthritis of the MTP joint, and associated transfer lesions beneath the lesser metatarsals. First MTP joint arthrodesis can be used after failed proximal and distal osteotomies, arthrodesis of the metatarsocuneiform joint, McBride procedure, exostectomy, and resection arthroplasty. Revision procedures have poorer clinical outcomes than successful primary hallux valgus procedures.     

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint for idiopathic hallux valgus: intermediate results

BACKGROUND: Followup studies documenting the outcome of primary metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis for treatment of hallux valgus deformities are rare. The purpose of this report was to evaluate the results of first MTP joint arthrodesis as treatment for moderate and severe hallux valgus deformities over a 22-year period in a single surgeon's practice. METHODS: All living patients treated between 1979 and 2001, for moderate and severe idiopathic hallux valgus deformities with first MTP joint arthrodesis were contacted and asked to return for a followup examination. Outcomes were assessed by comparing preoperative and postoperative pain, function, and radiographic appearance. First ray mobility and ligamentous laxity also were assessed postoperatively. RESULTS: Eighteen of 21 of the first MTP joints had successfully fused with the primary procedure at an average followup of 8.2 years (range 24 to 271 months). The time to union averaged 10 (range 7 to 15) weeks. Two of the three nonunions, both in the same patient, were asymptomatic and were not revised. One required a revision to achieve fusion. The average corrections in the hallux valgus angle and 1-2 intermetatarsal (IM) angle were 21 degrees and 6 degrees, respectively, and the average postoperative dorsiflexion angle was 22 degrees. Subjective satisfaction was rated as excellent in seventeen of 21 cases (80%) and good in the remaining four (20%). There was significant reduction in postoperative pain (p < 0.001), complete resolution of lateral metatarsalgia, and the postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores averaged 84 (range 72 to 90) at final followup. Major activity restrictions after surgery were uncommon, and all patients were able to wear conventional or comfort shoes. Interphalangeal (IP) joint arthritis progressed in seven of 21 feet (33%), but all of these changes were mild. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, arthrodesis of the first MTP joint for idiopathic hallux valgus resulted in a high percentage of successful results at an average followup of over 8 years.     

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint: The “when and how”

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint has been established as the “gold standard” for the treatment of several first ray disorders, due to its perceived efficacy and the consistently reported good results in the literature. Arthrodesis is a commonly performed procedure for the treatment of end stage arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis with severe deformity, selected cases of severe hallux valgus (with or without signs of degenerative joint disease), as well as a salvage procedure after failed previous operation of the first ray. The goals of a successful 1^st MTP arthrodesis are pain alleviation and deformity correction in order to restore a comfortable gait pattern and to improve shoe wear. Several techniques have been reported with several proposals regarding the preparation of the articular surfaces and the method of definitive fixation. As with any given surgical procedure, various complications may occur after arthrodesis of the 1^st MTP joint, namely delayed union, nonunion, malunion, irritating hardware, etc.      

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint: The “when and how”

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint has been established as the “gold standard” for the treatment of several first ray disorders, due to its perceived efficacy and the consistently reported good results in the literature. Arthrodesis is a commonly performed procedure for the treatment of end stage arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis with severe deformity, selected cases of severe hallux valgus (with or without signs of degenerative joint disease), as well as a salvage procedure after failed previous operation of the first ray. The goals of a successful 1^st MTP arthrodesis are pain alleviation and deformity correction in order to restore a comfortable gait pattern and to improve shoe wear. Several techniques have been reported with several proposals regarding the preparation of the articular surfaces and the method of definitive fixation. As with any given surgical procedure, various complications may occur after arthrodesis of the 1^st MTP joint, namely delayed union, nonunion, malunion, irritating hardware, etc.      

Mobility of the First Ray in Patients With or Without Hallux Valgus Deformity: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The hypermobility theory of the first ray is the reason for the popularization of procedures such as the modified Lapidus procedure involving arthrodesis of the first tarsal–metatarsal joint for correction of hallux valgus deformity. Although many studies have involved motion of the first ray in hallux valgus patients, the presence and clinical significance of hypermobility in the first ray remains controversial. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the difference in the first ray range of motion between patients with or without hallux valgus deformity. The databases used for the present review included Ovid EMBASE, Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Database. We searched for comparative studies that had evaluated the motion of the first ray in patients with or without hallux valgus. After screening for inclusion and exclusion criteria, we identified 3 studies that were relevant to our study question. All 3 studies showed more first ray motion in the hallux valgus group. Our quantitative synthesis showed a mean difference in the range of motion of the first ray of 3.62 mm (95% confidence interval 2.26 to 4.98) between those with and without hallux valgus deformity. Thus, we found statistically significantly increased first ray motion in patients with hallux valgus deformity compared with those without hallux valgus deformity. However, the clinical significance of this small amount of increased sagittal plane motion as a response to or a cause of hallux valgus remains unanswered.     

Intermetatarsal angle after first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis for hallux valgus

BACKGROUND: First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis is commonly done for hallux valgus with an arthritic joint. In patients with a wide preoperative first intermetatarsal (IM) angle an important question is whether the metatarsus varus will be corrected by the first MTP joint fusion alone or whether an additional basal osteotomy is necessary. METHODS: The charts and radiographs of 20 patients who had arthrodesis of the first MTP joint were retrospectively reviewed. All 20 patients were female with a mean age of 54.2 (range 42 to 78) years. Either a Hallu-S plate (Integra Life Sciences, Nudeal, France) or two crossed screws were used to stabilize the arthrodesis. The IM angles were measured independently by two individuals on weightbearing preoperative, 6-week postoperative, and final followup films. The final followup radiographs were taken at an average of 13.7 (range 6 to 30) months after surgery. A Student t-test was used to evaluate the changes in the IM angle and interobserver variations. RESULTS: The mean preoperative IM angle was 16.65 (range 12 to 26) degrees. The mean postoperative IM angle was 10.35 (range 6 to 15) degrees. The mean IM angle at final followup was 8.67 (range 5 to 12) degrees. The mean change between preoperative IM angle and IM angle at final followup was 8.22 (range 4 to 14) degrees. This change of the IM angle was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that in patients with severe hallux valgus and first MTP joint degeneration arthrodesis can significantly correct the IM angle without the addition of a basal osteotomy.     

Proximal spherical metatarsal osteotomy for the foot with severe hallux valgus

BACKGROUND: A proximal spherical metatarsal osteotomy was devised to correct not only varus deviation of the first metatarsal, but also dorsiflexion. We expected to increase the medial longitudinal arch by adding plantar flexion at the osteotomy site. To investigate the limitations of this procedure for feet with severe hallux valgus, a followup study was performed on patients with preoperative hallux valgus angles greater than or equal to 40 degrees. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight feet in 37 patients (10 male, 27 female) (60 years; range, 20 to 84 years) were investigated. Mean followup was 4 years and 1 month, ranging from 2 to 8 years. The spherical osteotomy was performed using a curved chisel. A distal soft tissue procedure was done at the same time. Twenty feet received combined operations for their combined deformities. RESULTS: While 81% of patients were satisfied with the results, 50% of those with preoperative hallux valgus angles greater than or equal to 50 degrees had postoperative hallux valgus angle greater than or equal to 20 degrees. In these patients, correction of metatarsus primus varus was good, but correction of valgus deviation of the hallux was fair. Mean correction toward plantar flexion was 1.5 degrees and no increase in arch height was achieved. CONCLUSION: The proximal spherical osteotomy could consistently achieve satisfactory results for the patients with hallux valgus angles less than 50 degrees. However, the corrections were worse in feet with more severe deformities. Furthermore, plantarflexion at the osteotomy site was offset by displacement at the first tarsometatarsal joint. If plantarflexion is indispensable, arthrodesis of the tarsometatarsal joint is recommended.     

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.     

Result of arthrodesis of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint using bone graft for restoration of length

We treated 24 patients (18 women, six men; average age, 46.4 years; (range, 28 to 66 years) with fusion of the hallux metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint using bone graft for the restoration of the length of the first ray. This procedure was performed after bone loss subsequent to previous surgeries for the correction of hallux valgus and hallux rigidus with: silastic arthroplasty (11), bunionectomy and distal metatarsal osteotomy (six), Keller resection arthroplasty (five), and total joint replacement (two). The indication for performing the arthrodesis with bone graft was a short first metatarsal, and associated metatarsalgia of the lesser metatarsals in addition to a painful MTP joint with or without deformity. This bone loss was associated with avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal (nine patients) and with osteomyelitis (seven patients). Of the 24 patients, 14 underwent additional concurrent surgery for correction of hammer toes (10), excision of a Morton's neuroma (two), and lesser metatarsal osteotomy (two). All patients were examined clinically and radiographically at a mean interval of 62.7 months after surgery (range, 26 to 108 months). The patients were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux and MTP 100-point outcome scale. Arthrodesis occurred in 19/24 patients (79.1%) at a mean of 13.3 weeks (range, 11 to 16 weeks), and the first ray was lengthened by a mean of 13 mm (range, 0 to 29 mm). Of the five nonunions, two were asymptomatic, and three were subsequently revised successfully, with arthrodesis occurring at a mean of 10.7 weeks. Complications included one deep infection requiring intravenous antibiotics for treatment of osteomyelitis and two minor superficial wound infections. The mean AOFAS score improved from 39 points (range, 22 to 60 points) to 79 points (range, 64 to 90 points). All patients were satisfied with the final outcome of treatment and stated that they would undergo the surgical procedure again. We concluded that arthrodesis of the hallux MTP joint with bone graft to restore bone loss and length of the first ray may be a worthwhile procedure despite the technical difficulty and the high rate of nonunion.     

Hallux valgus and first ray mobility. A prospective study

BACKGROUND: There have been few prospective studies that have documented the outcome of surgical treatment of hallux valgus deformities. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of operative treatment of hallux valgus with use of a proximal crescentic osteotomy and distal soft-tissue repair on the first metatarsophalangeal joint. METHODS: All adult patients in whom moderate or severe subluxated hallux valgus deformities had been treated with surgical repair between September 1999 and May 2002 were initially enrolled in the study. Those who had a hallux valgus deformity treated with a proximal crescentic osteotomy and distal soft-tissue reconstruction (and optional Akin phalangeal osteotomy) were then invited to return for a follow-up evaluation at a minimum of two years after surgery. Outcomes were assessed by a comparison of preoperative and postoperative pain and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores; objective measurements included ankle range of motion, Harris mat imprints, mobility of the first ray (assessed with use of a validated calibrated device), and radiographic angular measurements. RESULTS: Of the 108 patients (127 feet), five patients (five feet) were unavailable for follow-up, leaving 103 patients (122 feet) with a diagnosis of moderate or severe primary hallux valgus who returned for the final evaluation. The mean duration of follow-up after the surgical repair was twenty-seven months. The mean pain score improved from 6.5 points preoperatively to 1.1 points following surgery. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved from 57 points preoperatively to 91 points postoperatively. One hundred and fourteen feet (93%) were rated as having good or excellent results following surgery. Twenty-three feet demonstrated increased mobility of the first ray prior to surgery, and only two feet did so following the bunion surgery. The mean hallux valgus angle diminished from 30 degrees preoperatively to 10 degrees postoperatively, and the mean first-second intermetatarsal angle decreased from 14.5 degrees preoperatively to 5.4 degrees postoperatively. Plantar gapping at the first metatarsocuneiform joint was observed in the preoperative weight-bearing lateral radiographs of twenty-eight (23%) of 122 feet, and it had resolved in one-third (nine) of them after hallux valgus correction. Complications included recurrence in six feet. First ray mobility was not associated with plantar gapping. There was a correlation between preoperative mobility of the first ray and the preoperative hallux valgus (r = 0.178) and the first-second intermetatarsal angles (r = 0.181). No correlation was detected between restricted ankle dorsiflexion and the magnitude of the preoperative hallux valgus deformity, the post-operative hallux valgus deformity, or the magnitude of hallux valgus correction. CONCLUSIONS: A proximal crescentic osteotomy of the first metatarsal combined with distal soft-tissue realignment should be considered in the surgical management of moderate and severe subluxated hallux valgus deformities. First ray mobility was routinely reduced to a normal level without the need for an arthrodesis of the metatarsocuneiform joint. Plantar gapping is not a reliable radiographic indication of hypermobility of the first ray in the sagittal plane.     

Distal soft tissue procedure and proximal metatarsal osteotomy in hallux valgus

The results of a distal soft tissue procedure and a proximal metatarsal osteotomy in patients with symptomatic hallux valgus deformity were reviewed. The series consisted of 33 patients (47 feet; mean age of patients, 44 years). The average followup period was 48 months. At followup, 41 feet (29 patients, 85%) were free from pain at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. In six feet (four patients), the pain was improved but persisted. The mean hallux valgus angle was 38 degrees before surgery and 13.8 degrees after surgery. The mean intermetatarsal angle was 17.7 degrees before surgery and 7 degrees after surgery. The postoperative hallux valgus angle and intermetatarsal angle in patients who had pain at the first metatarsophalangeal joint after surgery were greater than those in patients without pain after surgery. This procedure corrects the hallux valgus deformity and relieves the symptoms, but careful attention should be paid to the surgical technique to obtain consistent and satisfactory results.     

Salvage of a failed Keller resection arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: A number of typical complications have been associated with Keller resection arthroplasty. Recurrent valgus deformity, cock-up deformity, and a flail toe may be difficult problems for the treating surgeon because options for salvage are limited. In this study, we evaluated arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint as a salvage technique following a failed Keller procedure. In addition, the outcomes of motion-preserving procedures were reviewed in a separate series. METHODS: Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was performed in twenty-eight patients (twenty-nine feet, group A), and either a repeat Keller procedure or an isolated soft-tissue release was performed in eighteen patients (twenty-one feet, group B). The patients were evaluated at least twenty-four months postoperatively, with a personal interview and a clinical examination with use of a modification of the hallux metatarsal-interphalangeal scale. Radiographs were also made for the group treated with the arthrodesis. RESULTS: In group A, the average duration of follow-up was thirty-six months and fusion was achieved in twenty-six of the twenty-nine feet. Satisfaction was excellent or good in twenty-three cases, and the postoperative score according to the modified hallux metatarsal-interphalangeal scale averaged 76 points (maximum, 90 points). A repeat arthrodesis was necessary in five feet because of malposition or pseudarthrosis. In group B, the average duration of follow-up was seventy-four months. Satisfaction was excellent or good in only six cases, and the patient was dissatisfied in eleven cases. The score according to the modified hallux metatarsal-interphalangeal scale averaged 48 points. Valgus deviation and cock-up deformity had recurred in the majority of the feet at the time of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Although it is more technically demanding, we recommend arthrodesis for salvage following a failed Keller procedure since it may be associated with a higher rate of patient satisfaction and better clinical results.     

Surgical treatment of severe hallux valgus: the state of practice among academic foot and ankle surgeons

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the operative procedures used for treatment of severe hallux valgus by academic foot and ankle surgeons practicing in the United States. METHODS: A patient with severe hallux valgus deformity was developed as a hypothetical case: a 50-year-old woman with a severe deformity (intermetatarsal angle = 20 degrees; hallux valgus angle = 42 degrees). The patient was symptomatic with pain, did not improve with conservative measures, and wanted the deformity corrected. This case was sent to academic foot and ankle surgeons in a survey to determine their preferred operative treatment for this case. The overall response rate was 84% (128 of 153). To be included in the study group each surgeon had to have 1) foot and ankle patients comprising 50% or more of his clinical practice and 2) direct responsibility for teaching orthopaedic residents. One hundred and five respondents met the inclusion criteria and formed the study group; however, three surveys with invalid responses were deleted. RESULTS: Fifty-two percent (54 of 102) of the respondents chose a metatarsal osteotomy, 26% (26 of 102) a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis, and 24% (24 of 102) a Lapidus procedure. Two respondents chose both an arthrodesis and a metatarsal osteotomy. Among the 54 respondents who chose metatarsal osteotomies, 24 used a Ludloff, 16 a proximal crescentic, eight a proximal chevron, two a scarf, two a distal chevron, and two other. In addition, secondary procedures to enhance the correction included a Weil osteotomy in 46% (47 of 102) and an Akin osteotomy in 30% (31 of 102). CONCLUSIONS: There was a wide variation in the type of procedure used to correct this severe hallux valgus deformity; approximately 50% of the respondents chose a metatarsal osteotomy, 25% chose a first MTP joint arthrodesis, and 25% a Lapidus procedure.     

Disorders of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint

The two most common disorders of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint are hallux valgus and hallux rigidus. The hallux valgus deformity has been the subject of numerous clinical studies in the past decade. This information has enabled the creation of an algorithm to assist the clinician in evaluating the patient with hallux valgus and selecting the appropriate surgical procedure. The technical aspects of various operative procedures and the most common complications are reviewed. The other major disorder of the first MTP joint is arthrosis, which results in hallux rigidus. As the arthrosis progresses, there is often proliferation of bone on the dorsal aspect of the metatarsal head, which results in impingement of the proximal phalanx during dorsiflexion. The impingement causes jamming, instead of gliding, of the proximal phalanx on the metatarsal head, which results in pain. The treatment for this condition consists of debridement of the MTP joint to relieve the dorsal impingement and, in most cases, the pain. If the arthrosis is advanced in an active individual, arthrodesis is indicated.     

Hallux valgus: demographics, etiology, and radiographic assessment

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the study was to preoperatively evaluate the demographics, etiology, and radiographic findings associated with moderate and severe hallux valgus deformities in adult patients (over 20 years of age) treated operatively over a 33-month period in a single surgeon's practice. METHODS: Patients treated for a hallux valgus deformity between September, 1999, and May, 2002, were identified. Patients who had mild deformities (hallux valgus angle < 20 degrees), concurrent degenerative arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, inflammatory arthritis, recurrent deformities, or congruent deformities were excluded. When enrolled, all patients filled out a standardized questionnaire and had a routine examination that included standard radiographs, range of motion testing, and first ray mobility measurement. A chart review and evaluation of preoperative radiographs were completed on all eligible patients. RESULTS: One-hundred and three of 108 (96%) patients (122 feet) with a diagnosis of moderate or severe hallux valgus (hallux valgus angle of 20 degrees or more)(70) qualified for the study. The onset of the hallux valgus deformity peaked during the third decade although the distribution of occurrence was almost equal from the second through fifth decades. Twenty-eight of 122 feet (23%) developed a deformity at an age of 20 years or younger. Eighty-six (83%) of patients had a positive family history for hallux valgus deformities and 87 (84%) patients had bilateral bunions. 15% of patients in the present series had moderate or severe pes planus based on a positive Harris mat study. Only 11% (14 feet) had evidence of an Achilles or gastrocnemius tendon contracture. Radiographic analysis found that 86 of 122 feet (71%) had an oval or curved metatarsophalangeal joint. Thirty-nine feet (32%) had moderate or severe metatarsus adductus. A long first metatarsal was common in patients with hallux valgus (110 of 122 feet; 71%); the mean increased length of the first metatarsal when compared to the second was 2.4 mm. While uncommon, the incidence of an os intermetatarsum was 7% and a proximal first metatarsal facet was 7%. The mean preoperative first ray mobility as measured with Klaue's device was 7.2 mm. 16 of 22 (13%) feet were observed to have increased first ray mobility before surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The magnitude of the hallux valgus deformity was not associated with Achilles or gastrocnemius tendon tightness, increased first ray mobility, bilaterality or pes planus. Neither the magnitude of the preoperative angular deformity nor increasing age had any association with the magnitude of the first metatarsophalangeal joint range of motion. Constricting shoes and occupation were implicated by 35 (34%) patients as a cause of the bunions. A familial history of bunions, bilateral involvement, female gender, a long first metatarsal, and an oval or curved metatarsophalangeal joint articular surface were common findings. Increased first ray mobility and plantar gapping of the first metatarsocuneiform joint were more common in patients with hallux valgus than in the general population (when compared with historical controls).     

Triplanar Correction for First Metatarsophalangeal Fusion

Successful deformity correction utilizing first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) fusion for hallux valgus with concomitant degenerative changes of the first MTP joint is well documented. Currently, there is limited discussion in the literature focusing on triplanar correction of the first MTP arthrodesis. Presented is a novel approach for triplane correction and fusion of the first MTP joint utilizing a biplanar locked plating system.     

What Do Patients Report Regarding Their Real-World Function Following Triplane Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis for Hallux Valgus?

First metatarsalphalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis has been employed for decades for pain related to arthritis and other associated abnormalities. Despite the commonality of the procedure there continues to be questions regarding functional expectations following the procedure especially when employed for correction of hallux valgus deformity. We surveyed 60 patients who had a triplane MTP joint arthrodesis at mean 28.4 months (median 27.8) regarding their activities of daily living and sports activity through a direct conversation. Secondary endpoints assessed were return to activity, deformity correction and arthrodesis healing rate based on chart review and weightbearing radiographs. The primary outcomes showed robust return to all activities of daily living with 97% able to walk without restrictions and or pain, 98% were able to walk at a normal pace and 95% responded that loss of motion of their big toe did not affect their daily function. Regarding return to sports all patients that participated in sports before surgery resumed participation after with a trend toward increased sports activity. Early return to walking in a fracture boot was noted in this cohort at mean 4.1 days, return to athletic shoe at mean 6.3 weeks and full unrestricted activity at mean 13.3 weeks with no non-unions identified on radiographic or clinical exam. Deformity correction of the typical components of hallux valgus deformity was similar to previously published studies. This data set supports the hypothesis that patients undergoing first MTP joint arthrodesis can expect rapid and full return to activities of daily living and sports with a low complication rate.     

Arthrodesis procedures for salvage of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint

First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) fusion has been recommended as a means to salvage various great toe deformities. These deformities include failed hallux valgus procedures, failed silicon implants, previous infection, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic conditions, hallux rigidus, severe hallux valgus deformities, and neuromuscular disorders. A variety of complications, such as hallux varus, first MTP joint instability, infection, recurrent hallux valgus, and avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head can develop from hallux valgus deformity treatment procedures.     

外翻术后再手术的原因分析及处理对策

 目的 探讨外翻术后再手术的原因及临床处理对策。方法 回顾性分析2005年12月至2011年12月外翻术后再手术的23例患者完整资料,男 3例,女20例;年龄28～85岁,平均63.1岁。再手术时间为初次手术后6～96个月,平均27.6个月。分析23例患者外翻术后再手术原因,根据患者临床症状、体征及X线片所示选择再手术方式。结果 23例外翻患者术后再手术原因包括：复发5例,内翻2例,转移性跖痛5例,内固定松动7例,内固定断裂4例。再手术方式包括：跖楔关节融合(3例),基底截骨再次行Akin截骨(1例),基底截骨加跖趾关节融合(1例),跖趾关节融合(2例),改良Weil截骨(5例),去除内固定(11例)。术后随访时间6～36个月,平均16.5个月。美国足踝外科协会(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society,AOFAS)趾、跖趾、趾间关节评分从初次术后(65.3±7.5)分改善到再次术后(89.2±8.9)分;术后患者主观满意度评价,优17例,良4例,可2例,优良率91.3%(21/23)。结论外翻术后再手术原因较多,包括复发、内翻、转移性跖痛、内固定松动、断裂等。再手术时需仔细分析患者临床症状、体征及X线检查结果选择个性化方案进行治疗。