Freiberg disease complicating unrelated trauma

Freiberg's infraction is an avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head characterized by the development of disorderliness of chondrogenesis and osteogenesis in previously normal bone. Radiographic findings follow the pathological progression of bony changes. The presented cases document the development of avascular necrosis in a previously normal metatarsal that occurred after trauma or surgery elsewhere in the foot. It is suggested that infraction of the metatarsal head resulted from microfracture caused by abnormal stress.     

Clinical results of Keller's arthroplasty

Fifty cases of hallux valgus treated by Keller's arthroplasty were reviewed over an average period of 91 months. This revealed radiographic changes in the first metatarsal head suggestive of avascular necrosis (AVN) in as many as eight feet. The blood supply to the first metatarsal head and probable cause of these AVN changes are discussed.     

Avascular necrosis after first metatarsal head osteotomies

Thirty patients who were surgically treated for hallux valgus by first metatarsal head osteotomies between 1975 and 1980 were reviewed. The average follow-up was 41 months, with the longest being 78 months and the shortest 16 months. Radiographs were obtained to determine if avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head had occurred. Two cases of avascular necrosis were discovered.     

Idiopathic Avascular Necrosis of First Metatarsal Head in a Pediatric Patient

Idiopathic avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head rarely occurs in pediatrics. The present case of avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head occurred in a 13-year-old male who came to the clinic with a 9-month history of pain in the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Conservative treatment had been applied for 9 months, but the pain had not been relieved. Therefore, surgical treatment, including decompression and debridement, was performed in the first metatarsal head of the patient. After 6 months of follow-up monitoring, full range of motion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was observed, and the pain had disappeared. No any other complications had developed during 18 months of follow-up monitoring.     

Avascular necrosis of the hallux metatarsal head

Avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head is rare. Although idiopathic cases have been reported, AVN of the first metatarsal head is usually iatrogenic following surgical correction of hallux valgus using a distal metatarsal osteotomy with or without lateral soft tissue release. A thorough understanding of the delicate vascular anatomy of the first metatarsal head is essential when surgery is considered. Careful operative technique permits a safe combination of distal osteotomy and lateral soft tissue release. Because the intraosseous blood supply is completely disrupted with distal metatarsal osteotomy, excessive capsular release and saw blade penetration into the lateral capsular vessels must be avoided. Among the thousands of reported distal metatarsal osteotomies performed using a variety of technique modifications of the original procedure described by Austin, the prevalence of AVN is low. Undoubtedly, the first metatarsal head has an excellent capacity to accommodate to changes in its blood supply. Although radiographic changes are frequently observed in the metatarsal head following a distal metatarsal osteotomy with or without lateral release, rarely do these changes progress to symptomatic AVN. These transient radiographic findings probably represent an adjustment period as the metatarsal head recovers from vascular compromise. Not only is AVN of the first metatarsal rare, but it is rare for it to be symptomatic. Many more cases that are never identified may exist. Management of symptomatic AVN of the first metatarsal head has not been standardized because of the infrequency of this condition. Anecdotal experience suggests that simple activity and shoe modifications may suffice; however, joint debridement and metatarsal head decompression may prove beneficial as they have in the management of other joints more commonly afflicted with AVN. Finally, severe head collapse may be salvaged with MTP joint arthrodesis. In the event that a substantial amount of avascular bone must be removed, consideration can be given to bone block distraction arthrodesis to avoid transfer metatarsalgia.     

第二跖骨头缺血性坏死的显微外科治疗

为探索治疗成人第二跖骨头缺血性坏死的新术式，应用带血管蒂跖骨瓣逆行移位植骨治疗４例，效果满意。随访１年６个月以上者２例，Ｘ线片示第二跖骨头呈圆形，密度均匀，跖趾关节功能良好。认为，带血管蒂跖骨瓣逆行移位植骨可为缺血坏死跖骨头带入可靠的血供和各种成骨因素，并可达到清理关节腔，骨内减压和凿除骨赘，修整跖骨头等目的     

Osteochondral Fracture of the Fourth Metatarsal Head Treated by Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

Fracture of the metatarsal head is uncommon, and reports of isolated osteochondral fracture of the metatarsal head are rare. Because of the distal location of the fracture, it is difficult to achieve and maintain reduction, and potential complications include avascular necrosis and subchondral fatigue fracture. The authors present a case of an osteochondral fracture in a 40-year-old man, which was treated by open reduction and internal fixation with a single twist-off screw, with good results 12 months postoperatively.     

Reconstruction of the ulnar head with a vascularized second metatarsal head: case report

A case of a young patient with avascular necrosis of the ulnar head following a severely displaced ulnar head fracture is presented. Treatment included debridement of the entire ulnar head, leaving the ulnar styloid, sigmoid notch, triangular fibrocartilage, and both distal radioulnar ligaments intact. The head of the ulna was reconstructed by transferring a vascularized second metatarsal head. At 4-year follow-up, the patient had a pain-free wrist with 45° active pronation and 65° supination. He resumed working without limitations as a manual laborer. We conclude that ulnar head reconstruction with a vascularized second metatarsal head is worthwhile in the setting of an unreconstructable traumatic defect, particularly when the sigmoid notch and distal radioulnar ligaments are preserved.     

The use of surgical core decompression as treatment for avascular necrosis of the second and third metatarsal heads

Freiberg's disease, a type of avascular necrosis, is an idiopathic osteochondrosis disorder affecting epiphyses of developing bones in children, particularly the second metatarsal with respect to the foot. This disorder can be caused by acute trauma and has been documented that exacerbation of it is present in patients with an elongated second metatarsal, thus, making it more vulnerable to repetitive trauma. Here we present a patient with a chief complaint of a painful mass. Radiographic and repetitive MRI findings were used to diagnose the patient with Freiberg's disease. Following the benefit time of conservative care, surgical core decompression was the surgical course of treatment. Core decompression has been routinely used to prevent structural changes in the metatarsal head and to relieve pain by decreasing the increased intraosseous pressure associated with avascular necrosis and allowing for revascularization of the necrotic area. The use of surgical core decompression with respect to the metatarsal head is relatively new; but has been routinely used for the hip and knee. Whether or not this form of surgical treatment will prevent recurrence is uncertain; further long-term studies are needed.     

Failures of hallux valgus surgery

More than 150 corrective procedures for hallux valgus exist and an incorrect choice of procedure leads to insufficient correction. Distal first metatarsal osteotomy cannot correct large deformities and degenerative changes at the metatarsophalangeal joint impede functional recovery. Incongruence of the joint must be corrected during surgery. Recurrence is most often caused by insufficient correction, especially of the first metatarsal bone. Overcorrection is often due to technical problems with the initial metatarsal osteotomy. This also applies to insufficiency of the first ray due to shortening or dorsal angulation. Partial first metatarsal head necrosis occasionally occurs but complete necrosis is rare. Non-union is mostly caused by incorrect osteosynthesis. During postoperative treatment the hallux must be held in the correct position to avoid failure.     

Fehlschl?ge in der Hallux-valgus-Chirurgie

More than 150 corrective procedures for hallux valgus exist and an incorrect choice of procedure leads to insufficient correction. Distal first metatarsal osteotomy cannot correct large deformities and degenerative changes at the metatarsophalangeal joint impede functional recovery. Incongruence of the joint must be corrected during surgery. Recurrence is most often caused by insufficient correction, especially of the first metatarsal bone. Overcorrection is often due to technical problems with the initial metatarsal osteotomy. This also applies to insufficiency of the first ray due to shortening or dorsal angulation. Partial first metatarsal head necrosis occasionally occurs but complete necrosis is rare. Non-union is mostly caused by incorrect osteosynthesis. During postoperative treatment the hallux must be held in the correct position to avoid failure.     

Austin bunionectomy: postoperative MRI evaluation for avascular necrosis.

The authors used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the formation rate of avascular necrosis following performance of 20 modified Austin bunionectomies. Five modified McBride bunionectomies without first metatarsal osteotomy were also performed as an MRI control. Results showed an avascular necrosis formation rate of 50%. The majority of the avascular necrosis areas were found dorsally within the cancellous bone substance of the first metatarsal head. These lesions, in all cases, did not cause any patient disability or result in any decline in the degree of patient satisfaction. The MRI positive avascular necrosis evaluations do suggest potential problem areas with the surgical technique that may be eliminated through further modification of the classic Austin bunionectomy procedure.     

Avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head

Avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head is uncommon. It is most often seen following a distal metatarsal osteotomy for hallux valgus. In this setting surgery has usually involved extensive periarticular dissection as well. Although many cases may be subclinical, in its most pronounced form it is a powerful cause of failure of bunion surgery. This article examines the underlying factor contributing to this problem as well as its long-term management.     

The chevron osteotomy and avascular necrosis

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the first metatarsal head following the chevron procedure for hallux valgus correction, has been reported widely in the literature; however, in practice it is rarely encountered and may be an over reported myth associated with the chevron technique. Although an infrequent complication, the consequences for those who develop post-operative AVN can be severe. This paper presents an overview of the pathogenesis and classification of AVN. It reviews the vascular anatomy of the first metatarsal with reference to the surgical technique of chevron osteotomy with lateral release. Imaging techniques are described and the management of AVN and revision surgery are also discussed.     

Primary closure with a filleted hallux flap after transmetatarsal amputation of the big toe for osteomyelitis in the diabetic foot: a short series of four cases

In the diabetic foot, osteomyelitis of the first metatarsal head adjacent to a malum perforans may require resection of the metatarsophalangeal joint. This results in a dysfunctional great toe and large tissue defects that take a long time to heal. The authors postulated that transmetatarsal amputation followed by primary closure with a filleted hallux flap would be feasible in selected cases. Patients that required surgery for diffuse bone destruction of the first metatarsal head were included in the study. Transmetatarsal amputation was performed only if tissue removal rendered the hallux functionless. Primary closure with a filleted hallux flap was attempted in four out of sixteen patients. The developed skin flaps invariably were long enough to cover the plantar tissue defect; no flap necrosis or recurrent infection was noted. Mean healing time was 44 days (range 9-69). Long-term results were disappointing due to ulcer recurrences under the remaining metatarsal heads.     

Distal soft tissue procedure in hallux valgus surgery: biomechanical background and technique

The distal soft tissue procedure has evolved into an indispensable additional surgical procedure to increase the corrective effect in hallux valgus surgery. Considering the biomechanical development of hallux valgus deformity, degenerative changes of the soft tissues around the first metatarsophalangeal joint contribute much more to the deformity than changes in the bony structures which can rather be seen as degenerative changes secondary to the deformity. Thus the principles in hallux valgus correction should aim to reverse all pathogenetic steps leading to deformity: release of the contracted lateral soft tissue structures, tightening of the torn-out medial structures and reduction and rebalancing the first metatarsal head onto the sesamoid complex. The scientific discussion over the last decades has clarified the impact of different surgical steps and methods on the efficacy of the lateral release, the risk of creating overcorrection or instability of the joint and the risk of avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head. According to anatomical and clinical data, a lateral soft tissue release can be combined with a distal metatarsal osteotomy, provided that the osteotomy is performed in a defined safe zone without increasing the risk for avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head. Transecting the lateral metatarsosesamoid suspensory ligament is the key to a successful lateral release in hallux valgus surgery. Release of the deep transverse metatarsal ligament and the adductor hallucis muscle does not contribute to hallux valgus correction. The lateral short sesamophalangeal ligament and the plantar attachment of the articular capsule should be preserved to avoid possible joint instability. Thus today, the distal soft tissue procedure cannot be seen only as a supplementary surgical procedure in cases where the bony procedure needs additional correction, but rather is an indispensable procedure to restore the physiological situation and function of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.     

Effect of metatarsal pad placement on plantar pressure in people with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy

BACKGROUND: Standard prevention and treatment strategies to decrease peak plantar pressure include a total contact insert with a metatarsal pad, but no clear guidelines exist to determine optimal placement of the pad with respect to the metatarsal head. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of metatarsal pad location on peak plantar pressure in subjects with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy. METHODS: Twenty subjects with diabetes mellitus, peripheral neuropathy, and a history of forefoot plantar ulcers were studied (12 men and eight women, mean age=57+/-9 years). CT determined the position of the metatarsal pad relative to metatarsal head and peak plantar pressures were measured on subjects in three footwear conditions: extra-depth shoes and a 1) total contact insert, 2) total contact insert and a proximal metatarsal pad, and 3) total contact insert and a distal metatarsal pad. The change in peak plantar pressure between shoe conditions was plotted and compared to metatarsal pad position relative to the second metatarsal head. RESULTS: Compared to the total contact insert, all metatarsal pad placements between 6.1 mm to 10.6 mm proximal to the metatarsal head line resulted in a pressure reduction (average reduction=32+/-16%). Metatarsal pad placements between 1.8 mm distal and 6.1 mm proximal and between 10.6 mm proximal and 16.8 mm proximal to the metatarsal head line resulted in variable peak plantar pressure reduction (average reduction=16+/-21%). Peak plantar pressure increased when the metatarsal pad was located more than 1.8 mm distal to the metatarsal head line. CONCLUSIONS: Consistent peak plantar pressure reduction occurred when the metatarsal pad in this study was located between 6 to 11 mm proximal to the metatarsal head line. Pressure reduction lessened as the metatarsal pad moved outside of this range and actually increased if the pad was located too distal of this range. Computational models are needed to help predict optimal location of metatarsal pad with a variety of sizes, shapes, and material properties.     

Percutaneous Bunionette Correction Without Fixation: Clinical Results and Radiographic Evaluations Including Rotation of Metatarsal Head and Sagittal Angle Change of Fifth Metatarsal

Bunionette deformities have been treated as an analog of hallux valgus, and the surgical techniques are similar. Most commonly anteroposterior image is evaluated pre- and postoperatively. To our knowledge, only one study has evaluated changes on the lateral radiograph and no study has evaluated changes in rotation of the fifth metatarsal head postoperatively. In percutaneous bunionette correction using a burr for osteotomy, shortening of the fifth metatarsal and elevation of the metatarsal head are inevitable. Without fixation, there is also a possibility of rotational change to the metatarsal head. We measured parameters on anteroposterior and lateral weightbearing radiographs in 18 feet pre- and postoperatively. Rotation of the fifth metatarsal head was graded according to the medial tubercle location. We also evaluated angular change of the fifth metatarsal on weightbearing lateral radiographs. Percutaneous bunionette correction without fixation could achieve satisfactory clinical and radiographic results, with less complication, when compared with previously published outcomes of open and percutaneous surgery with fixation. In this surgical method, bunionette is corrected in 3 dimensions. To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate rotation of the metatarsal head and change in the sagittal angle of the fifth metatarsal after bunionette correction.     

Isolated slipped-retroverted osteochondral fracture of second metatarsal head

Although metatarsal fractures are common, isolated intraarticular metatarsal head fractures are rare, and retroversion of the fracture segment is even rarer. Herein, a retroverted fracture of the second metatarsal head, which happened with a direct trauma from jumping from a height, was discussed with treatment options and finally a simple surgical trick was advised. There are only a few cases of isolated osteochondral and retroverted fractures of the metatarsal head in literature. The following is a rare case report of such an injury in a 19-year-old male.     

Joint occurrence of aseptic necrosis of the head of the third metacarpal and Freiberg's disease

Freiberg's disease of the second metatarsal was found together with the aseptic necrosis of the head of the third metacarpal in a 54-year-old female patient. No similar case was found in the available literature. The deformity of the second metatarsophalangeal joint was corrected with an operation, the alteration of the third metacarpal did not need operative correction.