Abstract
Purpose of the study: The efficacy of metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) fusion for the treatment of hallux rigidus has been well defined in the literature. There is however still some debate about the efficacy of conservative treatment, especially concerning the respective role for each of several different techniques.
Material and methods: This study reports the analysis of 113 patients treated for hallux rigidus with minimum one year follow-up. Mean age of this predominantly female population was 58 years. Fusion of the MPJ of the great toe was performed for 77% of patients and conservative treatment for 23%: isolated osteophytectomy (n=5), dorsal cheilectomy and shortening osteotomy of P1 (5 cm on average) with or without dorsal flexion for the others. The clinical outcome was assessed with the Groulier criteria.
Results: Overall outcome was satisfactory in 85% of the patients treated by MPJ fusion; MPJ pain resolved in 92%. There was however late healing or nonunion in 13% with no apparent clinical impact. Conservative treatment successfully relieved pain in 80% of patients who were able to wear ordinary shoes and had improved dorsal flexion of the MPJ.
Conclusion: The results of this study are helpful in determining the appropriate indications for surgery as a function of the clinical and radiological presentation of hallux rigidus.
Correspondence should be addressed to SOFCOT, 56 rue Boissonade, 75014 Paris, France.
