S29 LONG TERM RESULTS OF RESECTION TOE ARTHROPLASTY FOR RHEUMATOID FOREFOOT

Abstract

Introduction Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) commonly affects the forefoot, and pain caused by the deformity of forefoot impairs the walking ability. We have performed resection arthroplasty for all metatarsal heads using modified Lelièvre procedure in affected feet. The aim of the current retrospective study was to investigate the long term results and problems of this procedure.

Patients and methods We investigated 45 feet treated by modified Lelièvre procedure in 29 women from 1985 to 2003 at our institute. Their average age at operation was 54.8 years (range 39 – 76 years). They were followed-up more than two years (26 – 203 months). Resection of all five metatarsal heads was performed for the RA forefoot which had severe deformity and persistent pain, using medial approach for first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint and plantar approach for lesser MTP joint. The results were evaluated by the rating scale of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), Foot Function Index (FFI), physical examination, radiographic evaluation, as well as subjective assessment using questionnaire for mental and physical disability.

Results Pain and walking ability were improved in all but 2 feet; one of which underwent additional surgical treatment. Eight out of 45 feet had recurrence of MTP joint dislocation of thumb at the final follow-up. Re-formation of callosities was seen in 69% of the patients, 50% of which were developed within 3 years after operation, and 78% within 5 years. No superficial infection or delayed wound-healing was noted in any case. Satisfactory surgical outcome was maintained for at least 2 years after operation in all cases, and deteriorated later. At an average of 96 months postoperatively, the average AOFAS forefoot score was 67.9 points. Seven cases were judged to have excellent (25%), 13 cases good (46%), 7 cases (25%) fair, and 1 case poor (4%) results. The average radio graphic hallux valgus angle was 31.3 degrees. Eventually, 70% of patients underwent total hip or knee arthroplasty.

Conclusion Resection arthroplasty of all five metatarsal heads using modified Lelièvre procedure in RA patients with pain and deformity of forefoot seemed to be an effective procedure over a long postoperative period, providing reasonable relief of symptoms. Because RA affects multiple joints including hip and knee joints, the forefoot reconstruction alone cannot sustain the improved walking ability.