Hallux rigidus: How do I approach it?

Hallux Rigidus: Update on Conservative Management

Hallux rigidus is a degenerative arthritic condition affecting the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Prevalence in patients aged 50 years and above is estimated at 20% to 30%, with a portion being symptomatic. Conservative treatment's efficacy is linked to initial pain levels; though shoe modifications and insoles are commonly recommended, their true effectiveness lacks strong evidence. Injection therapy, including corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid, demonstrates varied outcomes, with about 50% of patients undergoing surgery within 1 to 2 years. The condition's etiology remains elusive, but recent biomechanical hypotheses hold promise.

Classification and Radiology

The classification systems of hallux rigidus, including the Coughlin and Shurnas, Hattrup and Johnson, Regnauld, and Roukis classifications, allow for a comprehensive understanding of the condition's severity and aid in informed treatment decisions. The common techniques of radiological imaging, such as standard plain film radiographs, MRI, magnetic resonance arthrography computed tomography (CT), weightbearing CT, and ultrasound, which enable accurate assessment of joint degeneration and associated pathologies for optimal patient care, are reviewed.

ACFAS Clinical Consensus Statements: Hallux Rigidus

The following are clinical consensus statements (CCS) on the topic of Hallux Rigidus sponsored by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. A core panel synthesized the data and divided the topic in to twelve sections, each section contained a variable number of consensus statements, based upon complexity. Overall there were 24 consensus statements synthesized for this subject matter. The 24 statements were provided to the expert panel with all available evidence to come to a consensus utilizing all available evidence.

Cartiva interpositional arthroplasty versus arthrodesis in the treatment of Hallux rigidus: A retrospective comparative study with mean 2 year follow up

BACKGROUND

Hallux rigidus is a common condition characterised by first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) degeneration, pain and limited range of motion (ROM). The gold standard surgical treatment is arthrodesis, providing good pain relief, but sacrifices ROM. The Cartiva synthetic cartilage implant (SCI) has been utilised as an interpositional arthroplasty, aiming to reduce pain whilst preserving range of motion. Current evidence for Cartiva SCI is limited. The aim was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of Cartiva SCI compared to arthrodesis undertaken in our centre.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted, enrolling all adult patients who underwent primary first MTPJ SCI arthroplasty or arthrodesis for the treatment hallux rigidus. The primary outcome was a validated patient-reported outcome measure (PROM), the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ). Secondary outcomes included EQ-5D, complication rates, VAS Pain and FAAM (ADL).

RESULTS

Between 2017 and 2020 there were 33 cases divided into two groups (17 Cartiva SCI, 16 arthrodesis, mean age 59.0 ± 9.9 years) with a mean follow up of 2.3 years. There was no statistically significant difference in any of the MOXFQ, EQ-5D, VAS Pain or FAAM (ADL) outcome scores between the Arthrodesis and SCI groups (p > 0.05). The mean MOXFQ Index score was 7.2 ± 6.4 for the SCI group and 3.9 ± 5.8 for the Arthrodesis group at final follow up (p = 0.15). Although complications were high in both groups, the overall hallux reoperation rate was 29.4 % in the SCI cohort and 0.0 % for arthrodesis.

CONCLUSION

This retrospective comparative study found no significant superiority of Cartiva SCI over arthrodesis in terms of PROMs. Due to the higher rate of further surgical intervention in the SCI cohort, we recommend arthrodesis as the preferred surgical option for hallux rigidus.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Ten-Year Minimum Follow-up Study of First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Fusion in Young vs Old Patients

BACKGROUND

Painful degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP I), or hallux rigidus, mainly occurs in later stages of life. For end-stage hallux rigidus, MTP I arthrodesis is considered the gold standard. As young and active patients are affected considerably less frequently, it currently remains unclear, whether they benefit to the same extent. We hypothesized that MTP I arthrodesis in younger patients would lead to an inferior outcome with decreased rates of overall with lower rates of patient postoperative pain and function compared to an older cohort.

METHODS

All patients aged <50 years who underwent MTP I arthrodesis at our institution between 1995 and 2012 were included in this study. This group was then matched and compared with a group of patients aged >60 years. Minimum follow-up was 10 years. Outcome measures were Tegner activity score (TAS), a "Virtual Tegner activity score" (VTAS), the visual analog scale (VAS), and the Foot Function index (FFI).

RESULTS

Sixty-one MTP I fusions (n = 28 young, n = 33 old) in 46 patients were included in our study at an average of 14 years after surgery. Younger patients experienced significantly more pain relief as reflected by changes in VAS and FFI Pain subscale scores. No difference in functional outcomes was found with change in the FFI function subscale or in the ability to have desired functional outcomes using the ratio of TAS to VTAS. Revision rate did not differ between the two groups apart from hardware removal, which was significantly more likely in the younger group.

CONCLUSION

In patients below the age of 50 years with end-stage DJD of the first metatarsal joint, MTP I arthrodesis not only yielded highly satisfactory postoperative results at least equal outcome compared to an older cohort of patients aged >60 years at an average 14 years' follow-up. Based on these findings, we consider first metatarsal joint fusion even for young patients is a valid option to treat end-stage hallux rigidus.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, a case-control study.

Surgical Outcomes of Synthetic Cartilage Implant Hemiarthroplasty for Metatarsophalangeal Arthropathy

Introduction Metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthropathy in the great toe causes considerable pain and debilitation, severely impacting quality of life. Traditional management options included conservative measures, steroid injections, and arthrodesis. New options include Cartiva, a synthetic cartilage hemiarthroplasty for the MTPJ. This prosthesis has evidence of improved pain and function without the sacrifice of joint movement seen with arthrodesis. However, the implant itself has mixed reviews. This study aims to identify the pre-, peri, and short-term post-surgical outcomes of Cartiva surgery and review the literature for existing reported outcomes. Methods We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of 22 consecutive Cartiva procedures between 2016 and 2022 in a single UK institution. Hospital records were analyzed for peri-operative complications, implant survival, additional operative interventions, patient-reported outcomes, and functional improvement. Results Twenty-one patients underwent Cartiva for the first MTPJ pathology and one for the third MTPJ pathology. Prior to surgery, 40.9% of patients had undergone alternative therapies, including MTPJ steroid injections (seven patients), cheilectomy (four patients), and bunionectomy (one patient). Total complication rates, inclusive of medical, surgical, and implant complications were 45.5% (10/22). Total reoperation rates were 18.2% (4/22) including two revisions to arthrodesis and two manipulations under anesthesia (MUA) with local anesthetic injection. At the final follow-up, 55% were still experiencing pain, 15% neurovascular symptoms, 10% swelling, and 50% stiffness or reduced range of movement. However, 85% of patients returned to usual activities of daily living within two years. Conclusion Cartiva surgery for metatarsophalangeal arthropathy has demonstrated outcomes of persistent pain, limited range of movement, and restricted function at short-term follow-up. Rates of reoperation and revision to arthrodesis were comparable with similar studies.

Treatment of hallux rigidus with percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis: a case series with a minimum follow-up of 2 years

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis is an option for the treatment of hallux rigidus in more advanced cases. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and radiographic results at least 2 years after percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis in patients with hallux rigidus.

METHODS

This is a case series of consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis in patients with hallux rigidus grades III and IV with a minimum of 24 months of clinical and radiographic follow-up. The primary outcome was clinical assessment using the Visual Analog Scale for Pain (VAS). Secondary outcomes included American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, patient satisfaction, complications, and bone healing (radiographic analysis).

RESULTS

Between August 2017 and February 2020, 29 feet (24 patients) underwent percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis. The mean follow-up was 38.4 (range 24-54) months. There was an improvement in the pain (VAS) from 7.8 to 0.6 (p < 0.001) and in the AOFAS score from 49.9 to 83.6 (p < 0.001). There was a rate of bone union of 82.8% and screw removal of 13.8%. All patients considered the result to be excellent or good.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of grade III and IV hallux rigidus with percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis demonstrated high patient satisfaction and significantly improves in clinical outcomes but the nonunion rate was higher than reported outcomes for open 1st metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, case series.

Outcomes of Operative Versus Nonoperative Management for Hallux Rigidus: A Tertiary Care Center Experience

Background This study aims to investigate and report the outcomes of various management modalities used for hallux rigidus, a common form of degenerative joint disease affecting the foot and ankle. The research focuses on understanding the pathophysiology, classification systems, and nonoperative approaches such as medical therapy, intra-articular injections, shoe modifications, and physical therapy. Surgical techniques, including joint-sparing and joint-sacrificing procedures, are explored, considering factors such as disease stage and patient preferences. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC), Riyadh. The study included all patients who were diagnosed with hallux rigidus from the period 2016 to 2022. Data were collected through the BESTCare system at KAMC. All the data were collected through Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington) and transferred for analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25 (Released 2017; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York). Frequencies and percentages were used to detail categorical variables, whereas continuous variables were examined by the mean and standard deviation. A p-value of <0.05 was considered to report the statistical significance. Results A total of 84 patients were included. The majority were women (60.7%). Diabetes and hypertension were prevalent comorbidities, affecting 21.4% and 35.7% of patients, respectively. Nonoperative management was the most common approach (66.7%). Complications were minimal (2.4% infections, 1.2% metatarsalgia), and 67.9% of patients reported no persistence of symptoms after treatment. Conclusion The low complication rates and the lack of significant associations between treatment modalities and outcomes suggest the generally safe and effective nature of the employed interventions. These findings can guide clinicians in making informed decisions regarding the management of hallux rigidus, while also highlighting areas for further research to improve treatment strategies and outcomes.

Revision Surgery After Failed Index Synthetic Cartilage Implant Resurfacing for Hallux Rigidus: Single-Surgeon 5-Year Experience

BACKGROUND

While metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis is regarded as the gold standard treatment option for end-stage hallux rigidus (HR), synthetic cartilage implant (SCI) resurfacing has gained popularity. This study aimed to identify the SCI resurfacing failure rate for a single surgeon, while also comparing clinical outcomes of patients who underwent SCI replacement or MTPJ arthrodesis after failed index SCI resurfacing.

METHODS

Health records were queried from 2016 to 2021 for patients with HR who were treated with SCI resurfacing by a single surgeon. Preoperative and postoperative range of motion, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, and hallux valgus angles were compared. A subgroup analysis was performed on patients who underwent revision with SCI replacement or MTPJ arthrodesis. SCI replacement included the use of bone graft, bone putty, or a custom 3D printed baseplate to prevent implant subsidence.

RESULTS

A total of 219 SCI resurfacing procedures were performed by a single surgeon, including 23 revisions. When analyzing index procedures, an 8.2% revision rate was determined. The revision cohort (n = 23) consisted of 19 female patients and presented with a mean body mass index of 29.5 ± 5 kg/m2, mean age of 52.8 ± 11 years, mean follow-up duration of 22.3 (range, 3-54) months, and mean time to a revision surgery of 12.1 ± 12 (range, 1-50) months. Specifically, 12 procedures resulted in an SCI replacement, while 11 procedures resulted in arthrodesis. While all patients experienced significant improvement in their VAS pain scores (P < .001), the arthrodesis cohort experienced a greater improvement than the SCI revision cohort (P = .04).

CONCLUSION

When analyzing SCI revision procedures, MTPJ arthrodesis reduced pain more significantly than SCI replacement.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level IV: Retrospective case series.

Comparison of Total Joint Replacement With Arthrodesis of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare outcome (clinical, patient-reported outcome measures, radiologic, joint motion and pedographic) of total joint replacement with Roto-Glide (RG) and arthrodesis (A) for severe osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP1).

METHODS

All consecutive patients with arthrodesis and RG from January 23, 2011, until September 18, 2019, at the authors' institution were considered for inclusion in the study. Preoperatively and at follow-up (FU), radiographs, and/or weightbearing computed tomographic imaging were obtained. Standard dynamic pedography was performed. Visual analog scale foot and ankle (VASFA), European Foot and Ankle Society (EFAS) score, MTP1 range of motion for dorsiflexion/plantarflexion (DF/PF) were registered and compared preoperatively and at FU.

RESULTS

Seventy RG and 72 arthrodesis patients were included. Preoperative VASFA and EFAS scores did not differ between the RG and arthrodesis groups (average scores: VASFA, 50.6 and 45.6; EFAS score, 10.7 and 10.6, respectively; each P > .05). Wound healing delays without further operative measures were registered in 4 patients (6%) for RG and 5 (7%) for arthrodesis (P = .67), and 5 revisions in 5 patients (7%) for RG and 12 in 8 (11%) for arthrodesis (P = .05). The longest available FU was higher in RG than in arthrodesis (47 vs 37 months on average, P < .001). Pedography showed higher first metatarsal head or sesamoids and lower great toe force percentage from force of entire foot in RG than in arthrodesis (P = .05) resulting in physiological pattern in RG only. VASFA and EFAS scores at FU was higher in RG than in arthrodesis (average scores: VASFA, 72.6 and 63.6; EFAS score, 16.1 and 14.1, respectively; each P < .05). DF/PF measurement was only possible in RG (average value: DF/PF, 36.1/14.0).

CONCLUSION

We found marginally lower revision rates and higher patient-reported outcome measures, joint motion (DF/PF), and more physiologic force distribution at slightly longer FU for the RG group than the arthrodesis group. Longer follow-up and broader clinical reporting are needed to identify the potential deficits of RG.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Preoperative Risk Factors for Primary Metatarsophalangeal Arthroplasty Revision to MTP Arthrodesis for Hallux Rigidus

BACKGROUND

Revision or conversion to arthrodesis following metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthroplasty are salvage procedures to manage complications of MTP joint arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to use a national administrative database to characterize nationwide trends of patients undergoing hallux MTP arthrodesis vs arthroplasty for hallux rigidus. Additionally, the authors sought to evaluate demographic trends and evaluate influence of patient-related risk factors in those undergoing MTP arthroplasty revision to arthrodesis.

METHODS

Patients who underwent MTP arthroplasty for diagnosis of hallux rigidus from 2010 to 2019 were identified in the Mariner subset of the PearlDiver database. Patients were included if they had undergone MTP arthroplasty for the diagnosis of hallux rigidus. Notably, the database lacks resolution about critical features of the arthroplasty design and materials. The revision cohort encompassed patients who underwent subsequent ipsilateral MTP arthrodesis or arthroplasty within 2 years of index arthroplasty procedure. Demographic characteristics and medical comorbidities were examined as potential patient-related risk factors for arthroplasty revision or revision to fusion. Univariate analyses were performed to analyze differences in patient demographics, comorbidities, and risk factors. A multivariate regression analysis was subsequently conducted to control for confounding variables.

RESULTS

2750 patients underwent primary MTP arthroplasty for diagnosis of hallux rigidus. Of these, 44 (1.6%) underwent revision arthroplasty and 188 patients (6.8%) were revised to arthrodesis within the first 2 years after the index procedure. Multivariate regression analysis indicates that obesity (odds ratio [OR] 1.48, 95% CI 1.05-2.09), depression (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.15-2.20), and steroid use (OR 2.94, 95% CI 1.30-6.65) were associated with a statistically significant increase in revision to arthrodesis from primary arthroplasty.

CONCLUSION

Revision arthrodesis following primary MTP arthroplasty for hallux rigidus within 2 years was found to be a relatively common occurrence in this national insurance database study. Risk factors for revision arthroplasty to arthrodesis within 2 years of primary arthroplasty include obesity, depression, and steroid use.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, case-control study.

Retrospective Comparison of Two Different Fixation Methods for First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis

Background and Purpose: Arthrosis of the first MTP joint is a common condition. Among the available arthrodesis methods, plate/screw and screw methods are the current treatment methods of choice. In this study, we investigate whether there is a difference between these two methods. Methods: Thirty-four toes of 32 patients with advanced arthrosis were included in the study. Eighteen toes were fixed with plates/screws and 16 with cross-screws. In the radiological evaluations, malunion and nonunion were examined. Clinical evaluation was made according to AOFAS-HMI scoring. Results: The mean age of the patients was 57.74 years and the mean follow-up period was 22.21 months. There was no statistically significant difference in clinical scores or union times between the two groups. As complications, superficial skin problems developed in 2 (5.9%) cases, deep infection in 3 (8.8%) cases, and nonunion in 3 (8.8%) cases. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in this regard. Conclusion: Plate/screw and cross-screw techniques give similar clinical and radiological results in cases of arthrodesis of the first MTP joint. The cross-screw technique, which can be performed more easily and has lower costs, should be the first choice.

Effect of Prior Cheilectomy on Outcomes of First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Fusion for Treatment of Hallux Rigidus

Background

Patients with hallux rigidus who do not experience significant pain relief after cheilectomy often require a conversion to metatarsophalangeal (MTP) fusion. However, it is unclear whether the previous cheilectomy affects outcomes of the subsequent fusion. The aim of this study was to compare patient-reported outcomes and complications in patients undergoing MTP fusion for hallux rigidus between patients with a history of cheilectomy and those undergoing a fusion as a primary procedure.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent MTP fusion who had preoperative and minimum 1-year postoperative Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores. Patients were divided into a "primary MTP fusion" cohort and a "prior cheilectomy" cohort based on their history of a previous cheilectomy. Preoperative, postoperative, and improvement in PROMIS scores, along with rates of complications including nonunion, infection, interphalangeal (IP) joint pain, and removal of hardware were compared between groups.

Results

The prior cheilectomy group had significantly lower preoperative physical function scores than the primary MTP fusion group (P < .05). Postoperatively, the prior cheilectomy group had worse physical function (P < .017) and global physical health (P < .017) scores. However, there were no significant differences in pre- to postoperative change in PROMIS scores. There were no significant differences in rates of nonunion (P = .99), infection (P = .99), or hardware removal (P = .99). More patients in the prior cheilectomy group had IP joint pain (P = .034).

Conclusion

This study found that a prior cheilectomy may not affect serious complication rates of a subsequent fusion, but it may be associated with worse baseline function. Overall, our results suggest that a prior failed cheilectomy does not influence the amount of improvement in function and pain from MTP fusion.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

The Cotton Osteotomy as an Adjunct Procedure in Hallux Valgus and Hallux Limitus Surgery

The Cotton osteotomy, as described in 1936 by Frederic Cotton, consisted of a medial cuneiform opening base wedge osteotomy. This Cotton osteotomy served to restore the "triangle of support" of the foot. In his address to the New England Surgical Society, he described this osteotomy as being multipurpose; it can be used for plantarflexion in hallux valgus surgery and has use in hallux rigidus conditions. Since its inception, the procedure has become a popular adjunct to aid in the restoration of the medial column deformity present in pes planus. Recently, there has been renewed interest in the use of the procedure to aid in the correction of deformities involving metatarsus primus elevatus, specifically, hallux valgus and hallux limitus. The advantage of the use of this procedure as opposed to others is that it allows for the preservation and/or restoration of first ray length and the preservation of motion at the medial column. In retrospective review, the authors evaluated seven cases with a 1-year follow-up. In this series of cases, the Cotton osteotomy was performed as an adjunct to common hallux valgus procedures or hallux limitus corrections. Radiographic review was also performed evaluating for initial evidence of radiographic bone-graft healing and patient weightbearing. Although not without its own limitations, the Cotton osteotomy offers several advantages with minimal complications, proving to be a valuable underused resource in the foot and ankle surgeon's toolkit.

Hallux rigidus: current concepts review and treatment algorithm with special focus on interposition arthroplasty

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK

Hallux rigidus represents a surgical challenge, with a multitude of possible surgical options, but with no ideal procedures.  The propose of this paper was to review the actual knowledge on the operative techniques, paying particular attention to the evolution of interposition arthroplasties, as an alternative to arthrodesis and prosthesis in the advanced stages of the disease.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature PubMed search was performed, and the actual literature regarding hallux rigidus was overviewed. The operative and nonoperative options for HR were described. Studies on interposition arthroplasty were classified by publication year, summarizing the operative technique, results and complications.

RESULTS

Among the various techniques for interposition arthroplasty, the Modified Oblique Keller Interposition Arthtoplasty (MOKCIA) showed the lower complication rate. It does not sacrifice the insertion of the flexor halluces brevis, maintaining the stability, length and strength of the big toe.

CONCLUSIONS

Although long-term randomized controlled trials are lacking for interposition arthroplasties, the reported results are comparable to the other alternatives for the treatment of end-stage hallux rigidus, making this technique a valid alternative also in the young active patient, without precluding other end-stage procedures in case of failure. Based on the current knowledge, a treatment algorithm was developed, according to the Coughlin classification.

[Distal osteotomy of the first metatarsal bone with plantarization for the treatment of hallux limitus due to metatarsus primus elevatus]

OBJECTIVE

Joint-preserving procedure with plantarization of the 1st metatarsal and improvement of range of motion.

INDICATIONS

Mild and moderate arthrosis of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint with pain and shoe discomfort due to elevation of 1st ray and failed conservative treatment.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Severe degenerative conditions 1st metatarsophalangeal joint with significant loss of range of motion preoperatively. General contraindications for surgical treatment/anesthesia.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Dorsomedial approach to 1st metatarsophalangeal joint, mild cheilectomy and arthrolysis, v‑shaped osteotomy of metatarsal 1 from dorsal with plantarization of the metatarsal head, screw fixation from proximal dorsal to distal plantar.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Full weightbearing in rocker bottom shoe for 6 weeks.

RESULTS

Improvement of range of motion from 35° dorsal extension to 50° in all cases after 6 months. Reduction of painful movement from VAS 6-7 to VAS 2-3 in 80% of patients.

Hallux rigidus - Osteoarthritis of the first MTP-joint. Surgical and patient-reported results from Swefoot

BACKGROUND

Swefoot is a Swedish national registry, that covers surgery in the foot and ankle. Surgical treatment of hallux rigidus (HR) vary within and between countries. The aim of this study was to report baseline variables for patients with HR.

METHODS

We extracted baseline characteristics, surgical procedures and patient-reported data for patients with HR entered in the registry during the period January 2014 to August 2019.

RESULTS

By August 2019, 1818 patients were reported in the registry. 68.9% of the patients were women, the average age was 58 years, the mean BMI was 26.4kg/m². 41.9% of the patients underwent a cheilectomy,19.8% a metatarsal osteotomy, 34.3% a fusion, 0.2% an arthroplasty, 0.3% Keller's procedure and 3.5% other methods. The preoperative summary score for SEFAS (Self-reported Foot and Ankle Score) was 26 and for EQ-5D (Euroqol-5 Dimension) 0.60.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first report from Swefoot regarding HR.

Complications Associated with the Surgical Management of Hallux Rigidus

Hallux rigidus is the most common arthritic pathology of the foot. This review article discusses the pathophysiology and common clinical presentation of hallux rigidus. Furthermore, we discuss multiple classification systems that categorize the arthritic process and guide management. Surgical interventions include cheilectomy, Moberg osteotomy, synthetic cartilage implants, interpositional arthroplasty, and arthrodesis. The common complications are reviewed, and the rates of these complications highlighted. Surgical options for hallux rigidus globally have successful outcomes with low rates of complications when done on appropriate patients.

First metatarsophalangeal fusion with dorsal plate: clinical outcomes

BACKGROUND

First metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) fusion is the most effective technique for the treatment of MTPJ primary arthritis, severe hallux valgus and failure of primary corrective surgery of these conditions. It can be achieved through different techniques. We evaluated the outcomes in a cohort of patients treated with dorsal plate arthrodesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We treated 30 feet for 28 patients; the mean follow-up was 35 months. For each foot, we collected radiological and clinical assessment, with the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and the Manchester and Oxford Foot questionnaire (MOFQ). The technique consisted in a cup and cone arthrodesis with the application of a low profile dorsal plate. Patients were allowed for immediate weight bearing.

RESULTS

Consolidation was achieved in all cases; in 29 cases, radiographic union was recorded within 6 months from surgery, in one case after 9 months. Comparison between the preoperative and postoperative of VAS and MOXFQ values showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Only one case developed wound dehiscence as complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Even if there is still a debate regarding the best system for MTPJ fusion, we believe cup and cone fusion with dorsal plating is an effective method. Moreover, the stability of the osteosynthesis obtained allows for immediate post-operative weight bearing, making patients able to return soon to their normal life.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

We present a retrospective study; all patients enrolled were retrospectively registered.

Diagnosis and conservative management of great toe pathologies: a review

Acute great toe (Hallux) pain is a common complaint encountered by the primary care physician. Pathological conditions can vary from acute trauma to acute exacerbation of underlying chronic conditions. Delay in treatment or misdiagnosis can lead to debilitating loss of function and long-lasting pain. This review endeavors to discuss the pertinent history, physical exam findings, radiographic evidence, conservative treatment options, and surgical management for the musculoskeletal causes of acute and acute on chronic great toe pain in the adult population. The acute pathologies discussed in this review are hallux fractures and dislocations, turf toe, sand toe, and sesamoid disorders. The chronic pathologies discussed include hallux rigidus, hallux valgus, and chronic sesamoiditis.

[Mini implants in foot and ankle surgery: an alternative to total joint replacement or joint fusion]

Mini implants are increasingly used in foot and ankle surgery. They preserve the joints' functions, are easy to insert and easy to convert to an alternative treatment. Early surgical attempts using silastic implants did not bring the expected success. First achievements where reached with modern metallic mini implants in the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint and the ankle joint. For a few years now, a polyvinyl alcohol implant has been used to treat the arthritic first MTP joint. Even severe arthritic joints can be treated with an implant made of polylactide. This implant can also be used in the treatment of Lisfranc joint pathologies. To address severe osteochondral defects of the talus, an innovative hemiarthroplasty implant has been suggested. This article gives a summary of currently used mini implants. Their application as possible alternatives to total joint replacement or joint fusion are critically reviewed in the light of the current literature.

Patient-reported outcomes of joint-preserving surgery for moderate hallux rigidus: a 1-year follow-up of 296 patients from Swefoot

Background and purpose - Hallux rigidus (HR) may cause decreased range of motion, joint pain, and gait disturbances. There is a lack of evidence regarding the outcome of different surgical procedures for moderate HR. We report patient-reported outcomes after joint-preserving surgical procedures for moderate HR.Patients and methods - We included 296 patients registered in Swefoot (Swedish national registry of foot and ankle surgery) who underwent primary surgery for moderate HR 2014 through 2018. We extracted information on anthropometrics, grading of HR, chosen surgical procedure, and patient-reported data including the PROMs SEFAS (summary score 0-48) and EQ-5D-3L (index 0-1) preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively.Results - 115 patients underwent metatarsal decompression (i.e., Youngswick) osteotomy (YOT) and 181 underwent cheilectomy. The mean improvement in SEFAS score 1 year after surgery was 12 points (95% CI 10 - 13) for YOT and 10 points (CI 9 - 12) for cheilectomy. Also, EQ-5D improved in both groups. Patients who underwent YOT were more satisfied with the procedure (84% vs. 70% for cheilectomy, p = 0.02).Interpretation - Surgically treated patients with moderate HR improved after both YOT and cheilectomy, according to patient-reported data from Swefoot. Patients who underwent a YOT were more satisfied with their procedure. One possible explanation may be that more patients in the YOT group had a concomitant hallux valgus; however, we have no information on this.

The efficacy of shoe modifications and foot orthoses in treating patients with hallux rigidus: a comprehensive review of literature

Hallux rigidus (HR) is a degenerative disease of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP1) joint and affects about 2.5% of people older than 50 years. The real etiology of this condition remains under debate. Clinical symptoms, physical exam, and instrumental evidence are important in assessing and grading the disease. The anatomy of the first metatarsal is unique and its configuration may play a significant role in the HR development. The first approach in the early stages of the disease usually begins with shoe modifications and foot orthoses, designed to limit irritation from the dorsal osteophytes, reducing motion and the mechanical stresses on the joint. To prevent or delay the development of HR, shoes should be sufficiently long, comfortable, with high toe box and broad toe-boxed, and should bear an allowed space for the orthotic device. The ideal orthotic appears to require a 3-mm thickness with a correct stiffness, and also increasing and extending the medial metatarsal arch just proximal to the metatarsal head, raising the first metatarsal and allowing the proximal phalanx to rest in a more plantarflexed position, decompressing the dorsal aspect of the joint. The increased foot pronation moment with medial column overload, when present, should be corrected. In addition, the maximum follow-up found by the analyzed studies was of 14.4 years, so the Authors cannot conclude how long conservative care can keep a patient free from pain and able to perform normal daily activities. However, the use of shoe modifications and foot orthoses may be considered a safe treatment and then should be always offered to patients, before any surgical management. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Valenti resection arthroplasty for hallux rigidus: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Valente Valenti proposed in 1976 a "V" resection of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPT1) on the sagittal plane for advanced stages of hallux limitus/rigidus, preserving length of the first ray, flexor hallux brevis and sesamoid function. The available literature concerning correct indications, management and clinical outcomes of the Valenti procedure (VP) and its modifications in patients affected by hallux limitus/rigidus was systematically analyzed.

METHODS

Titles and abstracts of all selected articles were independently screened by two authors to assess their suitability to the research focus.

RESULTS

Selection produced 8 articles as full-text, for a total of 347 patients, with a mean follow-up of 6±7.1 (range 0.2-17.5) years. Most common complication was transient sesamoiditis in 21 (7.4%) patients. No substantial differences in clinical outcomes were found between the original and modified techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

VP appears to allow an early recovery with few complications, if compared to fusion, interposition arthroplasties or osteotomies. The wide joint resection does not prevent, if necessary, further procedures such as fusion or implants.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, systematic review.

Effect of Age on Complication Rates and Outcomes Following First Metatarsophalangeal Arthrodesis for Hallux Rigidus

BACKGROUND

Hallux rigidus is one of the most common toe pathologies in patients greater than 50 years old. Although metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthrodesis is used to improve pain and function, older patients are often considered to be higher-risk operative candidates. There are minimal data on outcomes of MTP fusion and no studies comparing outcomes between geriatric and younger patients.

METHODS

This is a single-center, prospective study of all patients who underwent MTP fusion between August 1, 2015, and July 1, 2018. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), Life-Space Assessment survey (LSA), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain administered preoperatively as well as 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Baseline characteristics and operative outcomes were collected from the electronic medical record. Clinical and patient-reported outcomes were compared between patients <65 years old and ≥65 years old. Of 143 included patients, 79 were in the younger group (mean of 56.5 years) and 64 were in the older group (mean of 72.0 years).

RESULTS

Compared with the younger group, the older group was more predominantly female (95.3% older group, 77.2% younger group, P = .002). More patients in the older group had hypertension (73.4% older group, 50.6% younger group, P = .005) and coronary artery disease (9.4% older group, 0.0% younger group, P = .005). Both age groups had similar rates of postoperative wound complications requiring operative irrigation and debridement, deep vein thrombosis, deformity recurrence, and revision surgery. No differences were detected in SF-36, LSA, and VAS surveys administered at baseline, 6 months postoperation, or 1 year postoperation between younger and older patients.

CONCLUSION

Despite more comorbidities, older patients had similar rates of postoperative complications and reported similar outcomes for pain, function, and mobility following MTP fusion. These findings support increased implementation of MTP fusion surgery for older patients with hallux rigidus.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective cohort.

Cartiva case series: The efficacy of the cartiva synthetic cartilage implant interpositional arthroplasty at one year

Background

The Cartiva synthetic cartilage implant (SCI) is licenced for use in management of symptomatic hallux rigidus in several countries including the UK. As of now, there are no independent series for treatment of hallux rigidus utilising polyvinyl alcohol implants.

Methods

Patients at a single centre with symptomatic hallux rigidus who underwent Cartiva implant interpositional arthroplasty were identified. First metatarsophalangeal joint arthritis was radiographically graded according to the Hattrup and Johnson (HJ) classification. Pre-operative and post-operative patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) were evaluated using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) activities of daily living subscale and the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ).

Results

55 patients (14M, 41F) (37R and 18L) were followed up for an average of 21 months (min = 12, max = 38). 14 patients suffered from HJ2/moderate arthritis and 41 patients with grade HJ3/severe arthritis.Post-operative mean FAAM scores showed statistically significant improvement (p < 0.0001). Patients reported a 40% increase in functionality during activities of daily living.All 3 MOXFQ Domain scores improved significantly (p < 0.02). The Index score improved by 34 points (p < 0.0001).There was no correlation between length of follow up or age and PROMs (r = 0.129). No statistical difference was demonstrated between sexes. Clinically, however, males and older patients exhibited better outcomes.

Conclusions

Our study shows excellent results with statistically significant improvements in functional outcomes, and promising short-term follow-up with low early revision rates. Durability and survivability of the implant will continue to be studied in this cohort.

Management of high-grade hallux rigidus: a narrative review of the literature

Hallux rigidus is a disease characterized by an osteoarthritic degeneration of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Aetiology of hallux rigidus is not clear in the literature. History of trauma is considered one of the most common causes of unilateral hallux rigidus. Also, repetitive microtraumas or inflammatory and metabolic causes such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis and seronegative arthropathy can cause degeneration of the joint. The aim of this literature narrative overview is to summarize and expose the great amount of management concepts and information, including the well-codified main operative procedures to treat of hallux rigidus. This may provide current information for med-school students, researchers and physicians. A comprehensive literature search using PubMed database has been performed. The management for hallux rigidus can involve a variety of therapeutic interventions, conservative or operative. High-grade hallux rigidus represents a complex disease characterized by several clinical and pathological findings, and to achieve optimal results, surgical treatment should be chosen between several surgical techniques depending on the degree of arthritis and other different clinical conditions.

Outcomes Following Interposition Arthroplasty of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus: A Systematic Review

Background:

Interposition arthroplasty of the first MTP joint has recently experienced renewed interest as a treatment for hallux rigidus. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the rapidly expanding literature on PRO following interposition arthroplasty of the first MTP joint.

Methods:

PubMed Central, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched. Inclusion criteria included length of time to follow-up, number of patients, outcome measure, and use of allogeneic or autogenous soft tissue or a synthetic matrix as interposition.

Results:

20 studies were included in the review, comprising 498 patients and 539 feet with mean time to follow-up of 4.5 years. The most common substance used for interposition in the included studies was autogenous first MTPJ capsular tissue, a technique reported on in 12 (60.0%) of the included articles. In studies reporting preoperative and postoperative outcomes by way of a standardized outcome scoring system, mean group improvements exceed minimal clinically important differences in the majority of studies. Eighty-five percent of the studies included in this review were of Level IV quality evidence, and of this subset of studies, 70.6% were of a retrospective nature. Progression to further surgery was observed in 3.8% of toes. The most common complication reported was transfer metatarsalgia of 1 or more lesser toes, observed in up to 57.9% of patients in one study.

Conclusion:

Interposition arthroplasty appears to be a viable option for the treatment of moderate to severe hallux rigidus in patients looking to salvage motion through the first metatarsophalangeal joint. A wide array of autogenous, allogeneic, and synthetic implant materials have surfaced in recent years, but long-term follow-up and prospective, comparative study designs with low risk of bias are limited.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, systematic review of Level III-IV studies

Allograft Tendon Interposition Arthroplasty of the Hallux Metatarsophalangeal Joint: A Technique Guide and Literature Review

The "anchovy" interpositional arthroplasty technique can be used as a salvage option for failed hallux rigidus procedures. The operative technique utilized by the senior author is described. Careful soft-tissue handling, meticulous joint space and graft preparation, and interposition graft stabilization using a bone tunnel and suture anchors are unique aspects of this technique, which in the authors' experience have contributed to improved outcomes. Current literature regarding indications and outcomes is limited and controversial. The proposed benefits of soft-tissue interposition arthroplasty of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint for patients with prior failed implant arthroplasty are improved pain scores and preservation of range of motion. Level of Evidence: Level V, technique guide.