Long-term functional results of first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis for hallux rigidus

Introduction First metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) osteoarthritis hallux rigidus (HR) is the most common arthritic condition in the foot and occurs in 2.5-7.8 % of the population over 50 years. First MTPJ arthrodesis is currently considered to be the gold standard for the treatment of end-stage HR. When treating the advanced stage of HR, arthrodesis has long been established as an effective surgical procedure providing very predictable and satisfying results. Although the surgical authors prefer joint-sparing procedures first MTPJ fusion when required is the joint destructive procedure of choice in severe HR to eliminate or minimize pain, stabilize the first MTPJ and allow the hallux to bear weight. Functional outcomes achieved with fusion are also consistent with those from other surgical procedures. The purpose of this study is to evaluate long-term functional outcomes of first MTPJ arthrodesis. Material and methods Clinical and functional outcomes of MTPJ arthrodesis performed for 19 patients (25 feet) with grade 3 or 4 HR using the Coughlin and Shurnas Classification System between September 2010 and December 2017 were reviewed...