Early results of ceramic/ceramic fist metatarsophalangeal joint replacement

We set out to evaluate the early outcome of ceramic on ceramic (MOJE) prosthesis in the treatment of hallux rigidus. Between March 2000 and November 2003, 13 patients (14 implants), were treated using the ceramic/ceramic prosthesis. These patients have been followed for an average of 24.46 months. The American Orthopaedic Foot Association scoring system (AOFAS) was used to assess the patients before and after surgery. The average AOFAS score significantly increased from 43.07 pre-operatively to 95.28 post-operatively (P = 0.0001). At 6 months, 12 patients had no pain. The total range of dorsiflexion and plantarflexion improved to greater than 75° in 10 patients. Audible squeaking of the prosthesis, which improved between 3 and 6 months, was noted in 12 patients.The early results are encouraging with good functional outcome. Long-term follow-up is required to assess the durability of the ceramic/ceramic press fit prosthesis.