Non-constrained titanium-polyethylene total endoprosthesis in the treatment of hallux rigidus. A prospective clinical 2-year follow-up study

PRINCIPLES OF SURGICAL TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE FIRST METATARSOPHALANGEAL JOINT

At present, there is no general approach to choosing surgical tactics for hallux rigidus. Many surgical procedures are used to treat osteoarthritis (OA) of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (FMPJ), which are relevant at different stages of the disease. Nevertheless, this fact also suggests that all proposed methods have one or other disadvantages. At the same time, FMPJ arthrodesis that relieves pain and is functionally inferior to joint-sparing surgery remains the gold standard. However, due to the fact that not only persons over the age of 50 years, but also younger patients often suffer from FMPJ OA, the most non-damaging option of joint-sparing surgery is cheilectomy with chondroplasty of the FMPJ, which allows restoration of painless joint motions, thus sparing the anatomy of the foot. Chondroplasty using the authologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC®) technique for knee, hip, and ankle cartilage defects is described. There are no reports on FMPJ chondroplasty with the AMIC method in either Russian or foreign literature.

A comparison between metatarsal head-resurfacing hemiarthroplasty and total metatarsophalangeal joint arthroplasty as surgical treatments for hallux rigidus: a retrospective study with short- to midterm follow-up

Purpose

We evaluated the short- to midterm outcomes of metatarsal head-resurfacing hemiarthroplasty and total metatarsophalangeal joint arthroplasty (total joint replacement [TJR]) as surgical treatments for advanced-stage hallux rigidus (HR).

Patients and methods

From 2012 to 2014, all data from patients who underwent surgery for the treatment of grades 2–3 HR were retrospectively reviewed, and 45 patients were included in this study. Of these patients, 26 underwent metatarsal head-resurfacing hemiarthroplasty (Group I) and 19 underwent TJR (Group II). All patients were clinically graded prior to surgery and at their final follow-up visits using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society’s (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal–interphalangeal scale, a visual analog scale (VAS), and the “first metatarsophalangeal joint range of motion” (MTPJ ROM) score.

Results

Metatarsal head resurfacing was performed on 26 patients. Two patients underwent bilateral procedures, yielding a total of 28 cases in Group I. TJR was performed on 19 patients in Group II. Of the 26 Group I patients, 12 (46.2%) were male and 14 (53.8%) were female, with a mean age of 56.3±4.5 years (range: 47–63 years); the mean follow-up duration was 29.9±5.2 months. Of the 19 Group II patients, eight (42.1%) were male and eleven (57.9%) were female, with a mean age of 57.1±5.8 years (range: 45–66 years); the mean follow-up duration was 27.1±7.5 months. Significant improvements were evident in the AOFAS scores, and the VAS scores decreased, in both groups. No significant difference was evident between groups I and II.

Conclusion

After failure of conservative treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe HR, both MTPJ hemiarthroplasty and TJR were associated with effective recovery of toe function and MTPJ ROM, as well as good short- to midterm functional outcomes.

Total Arthroplasty of the Metatarsophalangeal Joint of the Hallux

BACKGROUND

The current gold standard in the treatment of severe hallux rigidus is arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP-I) joint. We present the results of a new 3-component MTP-I prosthesis. We determined (1) the intraoperative and perioperative complications; (2) survivorship of prosthesis components and rate of secondary surgeries for any reason; (3) prosthetic component stability and radiographic alignment; (4) the degree of pain relief; and (5) the midterm functional outcomes including radiographic range of motion (ROM).

METHODS

From 2008 to 2010, we prospectively included 29 MTP-I prostheses in 25 patients. The average age of the patients was 63.1 years (range, 48-87 years). The average follow-up was 49.5 months (range, 36-62 months). We observed complications and reoperations. A visual analog scale for pain and the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot score were obtained pre- and postoperation. Component stability and alignment were assessed using weight-bearing radiographs. Fluoroscopy was used to determine radiographic MTP-I ROM.

RESULTS

Seven (24.1%) patients underwent 1 or more secondary surgeries. Four cases (13.7%) eventually had a conversion to MTP-I arthrodesis. Two patients (3 cases) died from causes not related to the procedure. This left 22 feet in 19 patients for final follow-up. All but 3 remaining prostheses showed stable osteointegration and no migration, but MTP-I alignment showed high variability. The average pain score decreased from 5.9 (range, 3-9) to 1.2 (range, 0-5). The average AOFAS forefoot score increased from 55 (range, 0-80) to 83.5 (range, 58-95). Range of motion initially increased from 37.8 degrees (range, 0-60 degrees) to 88.6 degrees (range, 45-125 degrees) intraoperatively and decreased to 29.0 degrees (range, 11-52 degrees) at latest follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that total arthroplasty of MTP-I leads to a high amount of revision surgeries, but the remaining patients had significant pain relief at midterm follow-up. However, we observed high variability regarding the prosthesis component alignment and poor range of motion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, prospective cohort study.

Total Toe Replacement in the United States: What Is Known and What Is on the Horizon

Arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal is a common problem of the forefoot. The gold standard surgical treatment has been fusion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Many patients are unwilling to accept pain relief at the expense of loss of motion and the corresponding loss of shoe wear choices and activities requiring dorsiflexion of the hallux. Early implants were plagued with loosening and continued pain but implants have evolved. Current implants use modern bearing surfaces with press-fit fixation. These implants have renewed optimism for total toe arthroplasty. This article reviews the literature for implants currently available and describes the surgical techniques.

Proximal Phalanx Hemiarthroplasty for the Treatment of Advanced Hallux Rigidus

Multiple treatment options exist for the management of late-stage hallux rigidus. The goals of treatment are pain reduction and restoration of function. Arthrodesis remains the treatment of choice, but recent advances support the use of first metatarsophalangeal hemiarthroplasty as a viable and successful option in properly selected patients in whom preservation of motion and function are desirable.

Implants for the first metatarsophalangeal joint and prospective considerations

This article reviews the anatomy, pathology and biomechanics of the key joint of the foot, the first metatarsophalangeal joint, before focusing on the various designs of prosthesis that have been proposed for this joint. Metal hemiarthroplasties, single-piece, double-stem silicone implants and multicomponent implants are all considered in detail, as is an assessment of the available clinical results. In addition, preimplantation testing of the implants and the value of explant studies are discussed.

Short-term functional outcomes of first metatarsophalangeal total joint replacement for hallux rigidus

BACKGROUND

Although metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthrodesis has been advocated by many authors, implant arthroplasty appears to be successful option in advanced hallux rigidus (HR). The aim of our study was to evaluate the early results of the ToeFit-Plus prosthesis for the treatment of HR.

METHODS

Between December 2007 and January 2011, a total of 26 toes of 24 patients with MTP arthritis of the great toe were treated with ToeFit-Plus implant. The average follow-up time was 29.9 (range: 25 to 62) months. All patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically. Postoperative satisfaction and function were scored according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. Pain was assessed with the use of a visual analogue scale.

RESULTS

Mean preoperative AOFAS score improved from 42.7 (range: 36 to 59) to 88.5 (range: 59 to 98) at the final follow-up (P < .01). Preoperative average visual analogue scale pain scores improved from 7.4 preoperatively to 1.9 at the final follow-up (P < .01). The average MTP joint range of motion improved from 25.9 degrees preoperatively to 53.8 degrees at the final follow-up. No radiologic loosening was found, but radiolucency was observed in 2 patients with this implant. No revision was required for any of the patients during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

This total first MTP joint prosthesis yielded good functional outcome and high patient satisfaction level with low early complication rate. Preservation of joint movement and good pain relief with early mobilization were the advantages of this procedure. Salvage arthrodesis remains an option if future revisions are indicated.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective case series.

Comparison of arthrodesis, resurfacing hemiarthroplasty, and total joint replacement in the treatment of advanced hallux rigidus

The purpose of the present study was to compare the functional results of arthrodesis, resurfacing hemiarthroplasty, and total joint replacement in hallux rigidus. The data from patients treated from 2006 to 2010 for advanced stage hallux rigidus were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 38 patients who had at least 2 years (range 24 to 66 months, mean 31.1) of follow-up were included in the present study. Of the 38 patients, 12 were included in the total joint replacement group (group A), 14 in the resurfacing hemiarthroplasty group (group B), and 12 in the arthrodesis group (group C). At the last follow-up visit, the functional outcomes were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society-Hallux Metatarsophalangeal Interphalangeal (AOFAS-HMI) scale, visual analog scale (VAS), and metatarsophalangeal range of motion. Significant improvements were seen in the AOFAS-HMI score, with a decrease in the VAS score in all 3 groups. According to the AOFAS-HMI score, no significant difference was found between groups A and B. However, in group C, the AOFAS-HMI scores were significantly lower than in the other groups owing to the lack of motion. According to the final VAS scores, no significant difference was found between groups A and B; however, the VAS score had decreased significantly more in group C than in the other groups. No major complications occurred in any of the 3 groups. After 2 years of follow-up, all the groups had good functional outcomes. Although arthrodesis is still the most reliable procedure, implant arthroplasty is also a good alternative for advanced stage hallux rigidus.

A retrospective review of the primus first MTP joint double-stemmed silicone implant

Implant arthroplasty has been a surgical alternative for correction of hallux rigidus for many decades. A study is presented reviewing the authors' experience using the (Tornier/Futura) Primus double-stemmed silicone implant. A total of 144 patients representing 201 implants were identified and invited to participate in the study. The postoperative period ranged from 32 to 108 months, with an average of 66.4 months. Chart review was performed on all cases. This review revealed that there were 2 implants that had been removed, each for reasons other than implant breakdown. Several indications in addition to hallux rigidus were found, including hallux valgus with arthritis, geriatric bunion, rheumatoid arthritis, and iatrogenic and traumatic arthritis. The outcomes are presented for all patients, with additional breakdown by their indication for surgery. In all, 54 patients involving 70 implants responded and were clinically evaluated. This study included a Visual Analogue Scale, Foot and Ankle (VAS FA) patient outcome and satisfaction questionnaire, clinical examination, and X-ray evaluation. Patients with hallux rigidus had an average postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score of 88.2, and those with hallux valgus with arthritis had an average score of 88.6. The average AOFAS score for all patients was 87.4. The average VAS patient satisfaction for all patients was 8.5 (with 10 being highest satisfaction). Implant arthroplasty continues to be a viable alternative for surgical correction of hallux rigidus as well as other degenerative conditions of the first MTP joint. This procedure is particularly effective in older, less-active patients with lower functional demand.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, Level IV, Retrospective case series.

Evidence-based analysis of the efficacy for operative treatment of hallux rigidus

BACKGROUND

The aim of this article is to provide an evidence-based literature review and assessment of the quality of literature regarding operative interventions for hallux rigidus.

METHODS

A comprehensive evidence-based literature review of the PubMed database was conducted on June 24, 2011, identifying 586 articles, of which 135 were relevant in assessing the efficacy of common operative interventions for hallux rigidus. The 135 studies were then assigned a level of evidence (I-V) to denote quality. They were then reviewed to provide a grade of recommendation (A-C, I) in support of or against the operative intervention in treatment of hallux rigidus.

RESULTS

Based on the results of this evidence-based review, there is fair evidence (grade B) in support of arthrodesis for treatment of hallux rigidus. There is poor evidence (grade C) in support of cheilectomy, osteotomy, implant arthroplasty, resection arthroplasty, and interpositional arthroplasty for treatment of hallux rigidus. There is insufficient evidence (grade I) for cheilectomy with osteotomy for treatment of hallux rigidus.

CONCLUSION

There are no consistent findings in comparative studies that are properly powered with validated and appropriate outcome measures to allow any definitive conclusions on which procedure is best. However, the grade B recommendation assigned to arthrodesis may make it the logical leading candidate for future high-quality randomized controlled trials. Clearly, further studies-ideally, high-quality Level I randomized controlled trials with validated outcome measures-are needed to allow stronger recommendations to be made.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review.

Prospective analysis of a first MTP total joint replacement. Evaluation by bone mineral densitometry, pedobarography, and visual analogue score for pain

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that a total replacement of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP-1) would alter the walking pattern with medialisation of the ground reaction force (GRF) of the foot and subsequently cause an increase in bone mineral density (BMD) in the medial metatarsal bones and a decline of BMD in the lateral metatarsal bones.

METHODS

Twelve patients receiving total joint replacements (Roto-Glide(®)) of MTP-1 were enrolled in a prospective cohort. BMD and pedobarography of the heel bone and the metatarsal heads were performed preoperatively and at least 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

BMD in the lateral metatarsals and GRF under the lateral column of the operated feet decreased significantly on the operated feet.

CONCLUSIONS

Total joint replacement of MTP-1 tends to reduce GRF under the lateral column of the foot causing a corresponding decline in BMD and pedobarographic measures. Our findings support the further use of the Roto-Glide(®) prosthesis for osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.

Surgical management of hallux rigidus

Hallux rigidus is the most common degenerative joint pathology of the foot. Untreated, it may result in notable limitations in gait, activity level, and daily function. Positive outcomes can be achieved with nonsurgical management; surgery is recommended for the sufficiently symptomatic patient for whom nonsurgical measures are unsuccessful. Surgery is selected based on grade of involvement. Early to mid-stage hallux rigidus is best managed with cheilectomy or cheilectomy and proximal phalanx osteotomy. Arthrodesis and arthroplasty are reserved for late-stage hallux rigidus.

A multicenter retrospective review of outcomes for arthrodesis, hemi-metallic joint implant, and resectional arthroplasty in the surgical treatment of end-stage hallux rigidus

This is a retrospective, multicenter study examining the long-term results for the treatment of end-stage hallux rigidus using 3 different surgical procedures. A total of 158 subjects (105 females and 53 males) were included in the present study. They had undergone 1 of the following surgical procedures: arthrodesis, hemi-implant, or resectional arthroplasty. The long-term results for the subjective assessment of pain, function, and alignment, as well as objective radiographic and physical findings, were examined. The median interval to postoperative follow-up for the 3 procedure groups was 159 weeks. No statistically significant difference was found in age or the number of subjects included in the 3 treatment groups (p = .11 and p = .16, respectively). The body mass index was significantly different statistically among the 3 treatment groups, with the hemi-implant group representing a smaller body mass index compared with the other procedures (p = .007). No statistically significant difference was found in the subjective outcomes among the 3 treatment groups using the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons' First Metatarsophalangeal Joint and First Ray Scoring Scale (patient questionnaire) or the modified Hallux Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal Scale of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (p = .64 and p = .14, respectively). Furthermore, the correlation coefficient between the 2 subjective scoring scales was 0.78, statistically significant and reflecting a moderate to high correlation (p < .001). The results of the radiographic and clinical evaluation revealed that metatarsalgia was the most common finding for the arthrodesis group (9.8%), bony overgrowth into the joint for the hemi-implant group (28.3%), and floating hallux for the resectional arthroplasty group (30.9%). The results of our study suggest that all 3 surgical procedures are viable options for the treatment of end-stage hallux rigidus.

Quantitative review of operative management of hallux rigidus

INTRODUCTION

Surgical techniques for the management of hallux rigidus include cheilectomy, Keller resection arthroplasty, arthrodesis, Silastic implantation, phalangeal or metatarsal osteotomy, capsular arthroplasty, partial or total joint replacement, interposition arthroplasty. However, the optimal management is controversial.

SOURCES OF DATA

We performed a comprehensive search of CINAHL, Embase, Medline and the Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials, from inception of the database to 2 November 2010. Sixty-nine articles published in peer reviewed journals were included in this comprehensive review.

AREAS OF AGREEMENT

Cheilectomy and first metatarsal or phalangeal corrective osteotomy may provide better outcome for patients with early and intermediate hallux rigidus (Stages I-II), while arthrodesis or arthroplasty are indicated to manage more severe conditions. The Coleman Methodology Score showed great heterogeneity in terms of study design, patient characteristics, management methods and outcome assessment and generally low methodological quality.

AREAS OF CONTROVERSY

Definitive conclusions on the use of these techniques for routine management of patients with hallux rigidus are not possible. Given the limitations of the published literature, especially the extensive clinical heterogeneity, it is not possible to compare outcomes of patients undergoing different surgical procedures and determine clear guidelines.

GROWING POINTS

To assess whether benefits from surgery, validated and standardized measures should be used to compare the outcomes of patients undergoing standard surgical procedures.

RESEARCH

There is a need to perform appropriately powered randomized clinical trials of using standard diagnostic assessment, common and validated scoring system comparing reported outcomes and duration of follow-up >2 years.

Does total joint replacement or arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint yield better functional results? A systematic review of the literature

As first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis is generally considered to be a successful procedure for the treatment of hallux rigidus, many surgeons question the usefulness of total joint replacement. In an effort to elucidate the clinical evidence, we undertook a systematic review of the literature comparing the functional outcomes of arthrodesis and joint replacement in first metatarsophalangeal surgery. Using multiple search engines and medical subject headings, 10 articles were eligible for inclusion: 5 featured arthrodesis and 5 featured total joint replacement. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society-Hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal score was used in all articles. The mean age at operation was 53 years for joint replacement patients and 55 for those undergoing joint arthrodesis. Most patients in all studies were female. There was a significant increase from pre- to postoperative scores in both procedures. The median postoperative score for joint replacement was 83/100 (range 74-95) and 82/100 (range 78-89) for arthrodesis. The median revision rate in joint replacements was 7% (range 0%-10%) and 0% (range 0%-12%) for arthrodesis. This systematic review reveals that arthrodesis achieves better functional outcomes than total joint replacement. The operative techniques and prostheses for joint replacements are however still in an early stage of development and advances still need to be achieved to produce a more successful and anatomical prosthesis that could be functionally superior to an arthrodesis.

First metatarsophalangeal hemiarthroplasty for hallux rigidus

There is a paucity of objective information in the literature about first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) hemiarthroplasty. The authors postulate that it is a reasonable treatment option for severe hallux rigidus in selected patients. Twenty-two elective first MTP hemiarthroplasties were performed on 20 patients that met the inclusion criteria. Pre- and postoperative evaluations were done using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot score, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, range of motion (ROM) measurements, and radiographs. Average ROM and dorsiflexion improved by 15° and 8°, respectively. VAS pain scores improved from 5 to 2.5 after six weeks. Painless ambulation occurred after six weeks, with maximum improvement by six months. After 24 months, two patients had pain at the surgical site interfering with function, leading to an unsatisfactory result that required conversion to arthrodesis. First MTP hemiarthroplasty for severe hallux rigidus can be considered an alternative to fusion in properly selected patients who wish to maintain a functional range of motion.

Recreational sport activity after total replacement of the first metatarsophalangeal joint: a prospective study

First metatarsophalangeal joint replacement is an alternative surgical procedure to arthrodesis in the treatment of moderate-to-severe hallux rigidus. However, few studies have been published about functional outcome after joint reconstructive procedures for hallux rigidus. The purpose of this study was to assess clinical, radiological and functional outcome, with special regard to recreational and sports activity, after first metatarsophalangeal joint replacement in patients affected by hallux rigidus grade III. Twenty-three patients who had undergone total joint replacement of the first metatarsophalangeal joint were examined preoperatively and three, six, 12 and 18 months postoperatively. All patients (mean age of 57.0 ± 3.7 years) received a non-cemented TOEFIT-PLUS™ implant by one surgeon. Clinical scores (AOFAS score and VAS), radiological examination, patient satisfaction and sport participation were used to evaluate treatment outcome and radiolucent lines. The mean AOFAS score showed a significant improvement from 44.6 ± 7.2 points preoperatively to an average of 82.5 ± 14.4 points at last follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean total ROM of the first MTP joint increased from 28.1 ± 4.9 degrees preoperatively to 52.7 ± 15.7 degrees postoperatively (p < 0.001). After surgery, 91.3% of the patients were able to resume at least one recreational activity. Total arthroplasty for the treatment of hallux rigidus in an active patient population revealed good clinical and functional results. However, postoperative recreational sport activity showed a decrease in comparison to the pre-arthritic state. Further follow-up is necessary to quantify loosening risk in active patients after total hallux arthroplasty.

Moje first metatarsophalangeal replacement--a case series with functional outcomes using the AOFAS-HMI score

We report the functional results of a case series of Moje first metatarsophalangeal total joint replacements carried out between February 2001 and November 2006. All patients who underwent Moje arthroplasty under the care of a single surgeon were included; outcome scores and complications were recorded annually. A total of 32 joints in 29 consecutive patients were followed for a mean duration of 34 (range 6 to 74) months, and the mean patient age at the time of operation was 56 (range 38 to 79) years. Hallux rigidus was the primary diagnosis in 28 (87.5%) of the cases. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Hallux-Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal score at final follow-up was 74/100 (range 9 to 100), with 13 (40.63%) joints rated good to excellent. Two (6.25%) joints were revised to arthrodesis at a mean of 52 (range 41 to 63) months following the arthroplasty procedure, and the overall prevalence of postoperative complications was 6 (18.75%). Based on these results, we concluded that first MTPJ total joint replacement with the Moje device remains promising, but still has room for improvement before the results match those obtained with larger joint (knee, hip) arthroplasty.

The Valenti technique in the treatment of hallux rigidus

INTRODUCTION

Metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis of the great toe (hallux rigidus) is a frequent condition for which numerous surgical techniques have been proposed. The most used ones are cheilectomy and arthrodesis. The objectives of this retrospective study are to present the midterm results of the Valenti procedure and to compare these results with those from other recognized surgical techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of a continuous group of 32 patients (41 cases) presenting hallux rigidus and treated using the Valenti technique from November 1999 to July 2004. The mean age of these patients at the time of surgery was 57 years. Forty-one percent of these patients also presented a static disorder of the foot. One or several additional procedures were undertaken, at the time of surgery, in 24% of these cases. Patients were assessed using the AOFAS score completed by the walking distance test, the gait test, the tiptoe test and self-evaluation of patient satisfaction. The radiographic work-up before surgery and at follow-up showed the progression of the joint space changes and allowed us to evaluate plantar subluxation at the base of the first phalanx under the metatarsal head.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients (32 cases) were reviewed and evaluated with a mean follow-up of 5.5 years. Two cases of reflex sympathetic dystrophy were observed as complications. The mean final score was 81 out of 100 from a preoperative score of 47 out of 100. Pain was absent or only occasional in 94% of the cases. Discomfort wearing shoes was absent or moderate in 91% of the cases. Joint range of movement was greater than 30 degrees in 72% of the cases and the toes were stable. Walking distance was unlimited in 79% of the cases. A mean 30% plantar subluxation at the base of the first phalanx was noted at follow-up, with no clinical consequence. The results were comparable irrelevantly of the hallux rigidus grade being treated.

DISCUSSION

The numerous techniques proposed achieve comparable results both in terms of pain relief and functional result but each one has its own limitations. Only arthroplasties with silastic implants and the Keller technique give less satisfactory results. Arthrodesis remains the first-choice treatment for advanced hallux rigidus but failure is possible in case of technical error or malunion. Cheilectomy, a conservative intervention, is ideal for lesions that are not too advanced or remain limited to the dorsal part of the joint; this conservative option presents generally no specific complications. Prosthetic replacement--with, to date, little long-term experience for total arthroplasty--remains controversial because the results deteriorate over time. The Valenti procedure exposes the patient to a possible risk of metatarsophalangeal joint destabilization if the resection is too great, but this does not impair the final functional outcome.

CONCLUSION

The arthrectomy described by Valenti is a highly reproducible intervention. We find it to be a good compromise between mobility and stability, providing good results for all hallux rigidus grades and entailing a low complication rate.

LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE

Level IV. Therapeutic Study.

Hallux rigidus: MTP implant arthroplasty

Hallux rigidus or osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is characterized by pain, stiffness of the joint, and alterations of gait. The appeal of joint arthroplasty for hallux rigidus is similar to its benefits in other joints in the body. The ideal implant should relieve pain, restore motion, improve function, and maintain joint stability. Numerous implants have been described for the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint. This article discusses various implant options along with clinical outcomes and complications.

Meta-analysis of first metatarsophalangeal joint implant arthroplasty

Management of late-stage degenerative joint disease of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) is a complex topic that is frequently the source of debate among foot and ankle surgeons. Several surgical interventions have been described to treat this condition. One of the most contested of these treatments is implant arthroplasty of the first MPJ. The primary aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the clinical benefit of first MPJ implant arthroplasty in regard to patient satisfaction. Reviewers formally trained in meta-analysis abstraction techniques searched databases and indices using medical subject heading terms and other methods to identify all relevant studies published since 1990. Initially, 3874 citations were identified and evaluated for relevance. Abstract screening produced 112 articles to be read in entirety, of which 47 articles studying 3049 procedures with a mean 61.48 (SD 45.03) month follow-up met all prospective inclusion criteria necessary for analysis. Overall crude patient satisfaction following first MPJ implant arthroplasty was 85.7% (95% confidence interval: 82.5%-88.3%). When adjusting for lower quality studies (retrospective, less than 5 years of follow-up, higher percent of patients lost to follow-up), the overall patient satisfaction increased to 94.5% (89.6%-97.2%) in the highest-quality studies. This adjustment also significantly decreased heterogeneity across studies (crude Q = 184.6, high-quality studies Q = 2.053). Additional a priori sources of heterogeneity were evaluated by subgroup analysis and meta-regression. In regards to patient satisfaction, this comprehensive analysis provides supportive evidence to the clinical benefit of first MPJ implant arthroplasties.

LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE

1.

Comparison of arthrodesis and metallic hemiarthroplasty of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint. Surgical technique

BACKGROUND

Currently, arthrodesis is the most commonly performed surgical procedure for the treatment of severe arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The objective of this study was to compare the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of a metallic hemiarthroplasty with those of arthrodesis for the treatment of this condition.

METHODS

A series of patients with osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint were treated with either a metallic hemiarthroplasty or an arthrodesis between 1999 and 2005. Postoperative satisfaction and function were graded with use of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Hallux Metatarsophalangeal Interphalangeal (AOFAS-HMI) scoring system, and pain was scored with use of a visual analogue scale.

RESULTS

Twenty-one hemiarthroplasties and twenty-seven arthrodeses were performed in forty-six patients. Five (24%) of the hemiarthroplasties failed; one of them was revised, and four were converted to an arthrodesis. Eight of the feet in which the hemiprosthesis had survived had evidence of plantar cutout of the prosthetic stem on the final follow-up radiographs. At the time of final follow-up (at a mean of 79.4 months), the satisfaction ratings in the hemiarthroplasty group were good or excellent for twelve feet, fair for two, and poor or a failure for seven. The mean pain score was 2.4 of 10. All twenty-seven of the arthrodeses achieved fusion, and no revisions were required. At the time of final follow-up (at a mean of thirty months), the satisfaction ratings in this group were good or excellent for twenty-two feet, fair for four, and poor for one. The mean pain score was 0.7 of 10. Two patients required hardware removal, which was performed as an office procedure with the use of local anesthesia. The AOFAS-HMI and visual analogue pain scores and satisfaction were significantly better in the arthrodesis group.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthrodesis is more predictable than a metallic hemiarthroplasty for alleviating symptoms and restoring function in patients with severe osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.

First MTP joint arthrodesis for the treatment of hallux rigidus: results of 29 consecutive cases using the foot health status questionnaire validated measurement tool

BACKGROUND

Arthrodesis of the first MTP joint is an accepted and long established joint destructive procedure for the management of hallux rigidus.

OBJECTIVES

This paper presents the results of 29 consecutive first MTP joint arthrodesis procedures for the treatment of hallux rigidus.

METHOD

The outcomes of 29 (18 female and 11 male) consecutive arthrodesis procedures were analysed with the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ), minimal important difference scores, and a patient satisfaction questionnaire.

RESULTS

FHSQ foot pain scores improved for 27 (93%) patients; foot function improved for 23 (79%) patients; shoe scores improved for 18 (62%) patients; foot health improved for 20 (68%) patients; general health improved for 12 (41%) patients; physical activity improved for 21 (72%) patients; social capacity improved for 21 (21%) patients; vigour improved for 15 (51%) patients. FHSQ minimal important difference scores were achieved for foot pain in 25 patients (86%); foot function in 17 patients (58%); and general foot health in 19 (65%) patients. Analysis with the matched pairs Wilcoxon rank sum test (p<0.05) revealed statistically significant improvement in all FHSQ domains. Female patients appeared to fare better than male patients in all FHSQ categories other than general health and vigour.

CONCLUSION

Arthrodesis of the first MTP joint can reliably reduce pain relating to hallux rigidus and can improve foot function and allow a return to physical activity.

Hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of hallux rigidus

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint is a painful, disabling condition. It can interfere with the ability to run and even walk without pain. An implant of cobalt-chrome steel alloy to replace the base of the proximal phalanx is one solution. The purpose of this study is to review our results with one of these implants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A series of 23 cases of hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of hallux rigidus from June 2000 to October 2001 has been evaluated using the AOFAS rating system, and the results are presented.

RESULTS

The average preoperative AOFAS score was 57 (range, 39 to 80). The AOFAS score after hemiarthroplasty was 88 (range, 75 to 100) at last followup (34 to 72 months). There were no perioperative complications except for a small hematoma. Only one patient has required further surgery after 3 years for worsening of a preexisting tendency to hallux valgus.

CONCLUSION

A hemiarthroplasty retained, in most cases, joint mobility, strength, and alignment while relieving pain. There was no evidence, at last followup, of component loosening or osteolysis.

[Results for endoprosthetic care in patients younger than 50 years]

Arthroplasty has become the most successful surgical procedure in developed countries. Replacement of severely damaged joints results in a substantial relief of pain, as the main symptom of osteoarthritis, in the majority of treated patients. With improved results in endoprosthetic surgery over the last decades, however, patients are increasingly undergoing the procedure to enhance their functional capacity and physical mobility. Especially younger patients, who cannot accept a restriction in their professional or sports activity, have become demanding candidates for surgery. This review summarizes the published results on shoulder, hip, knee, ankle and first metatarsophalangeal joint replacement in patients who are younger than 50 years of age. Mid- and long-term follow-up studies in this age group are evaluated in terms of prosthesis survival as well as functional improvement.

Joint replacement in the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint

Joint replacement of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint has not enjoyed the same success as hip and knee arthroplasties. Silastic implants have achieved a high patient satisfactory rate but have caused many complications, including silicone synovitis and lymph node inflammation. Metal and polyethylene hemiarthroplasties and total toe replacements seem to be more promising although results are preliminary. Problems with these implants seem to be related to soft tissue instability of the joint; patients who have hallux rigidus have more success than patients who have hallux valgus or rheumatoid arthritis. Severe complications can be treated with removal and synovectomy or arthrodesis, depending on the length and alignment of the foot, as well as the functional demands of the patients. It would be beneficial to have more data on these implants so that improvements can be made in design and patient selection.

First metatarsophalangeal joint replacement: the method of choice for end-stage hallux rigidus?

Replacement of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint remains critical because of complex biomechanical conditions and implant fixation. After a 3-year follow-up, most patients who experienced an MTP joint replacement were extremely satisfied with the outcome. Plantar pressure distribution revealed a marked improvement. Nevertheless, recovery of MTP dorsiflexion was limited and joint stability worsened. Radiologically, one-third of the prostheses showed radiolucent lines as a sign of implant loosening. MTP replacement offers distinct advantages in the treatment of end-stage hallux rigidus, but requires further research on implant design and osseous fixation.