First metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis/fusion: a systematic review of modern fixation techniques

Crossed screws versus plating supplemented with an interfragmentary screw in first metatarsophalangeal joint fusion: A systematic review and meta-analysis

First metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) fusion is an effective surgical intervention for conditions such as hallux valgus and hallux rigidus. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare the safety and efficacy of crossed screws versus plating supplemented with an interfragmentary screw. A literature search of the Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and MEDLINE databases was performed to identify all studies directly comparing the two techniques. Meta-analysis was carried out using RevMan Web. Nine studies with 976 patients (1,035 toes in total, 512 toes in the crossed screws group, and 523 toes in the plate supplemented with screws group) were included. There was no significant difference in union rates (OR=0.75, CI 0.45 - 1.27, p = 0.29), overall complication rates (OR = 1.13, CI = 0.71 - 1.77, p = 0.61), superficial complications, (OR = 0.41, CI = 0.10 - 1.68, p = 0.22), revision surgery (OR = 1.92, CI 0.81 - 4.57, p = 0.14), hardware removal (OR = 1.07, CI = 0.55 - 2.08, p = 0.85), and malunion (OR = 1.63, CI 0.27 - 10.00, p = 0.60). Plate and screws had a significantly shorter time to fusion than crossed screws (MD = 0.51, CI = 0.10 - 0.92, p = 0.02). No significant difference was noted in patient-reported outcome measures or in postoperative hallux valgus, intermetatarsal, and lateral metatarsophalangeal angles. Other potential factors that should influence the decision to use one technique over the other include the indication for MTPJ fusion, the patient's bone quality, and the differing costs of surgery.

Research progress in the etiology and minimally invasive therapy of hallux valgus

Hallux valgus (HV) is the most common foot deformity. It has various pathogenic factors that make its pathogenesis challenging to understand. As the disease progresses, patients experience amplified pain and decreased activities, significantly affecting their quality of life. At present, clinics offer several conservative and surgical treatments that must be selected based on patient condition and disease progression. Surgical treatment is frequently the only method available to patients with HV to delay disease progression and correct the deformity after conservative treatment fails. In recent years, minimally invasive surgical treatments have gained significant attention and developed rapidly due to their well-known advantages, such as safety, efficiency, and quick recovery time. The number of literature that provides a systematic review of the subject must be increased. This review tracks recent advancements, summarizing the etiological mechanism, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of HV. In addition, it emphasizes typical surgical therapies and focuses on the progress of minimally invasive treatment from the first generation to the current fourth generation. This review will serve as a systematic basis for the clinical treatment of HV and provide a reference material for future research.

Percutaneous hallux fusion with calcaneus bone autograft: a retrospective cohort study of clinical and radiographic outcomes

BACKGROUND

In the case of end-stage hallux rigidus, first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis is the gold-standard and is traditionally performed via an open approach. However, complications such as nonunion have been reported to be as high as 30%. Recently, there have been reports demonstrating a percutaneous approach to be effective and safe.

METHODS

Forty-nine patients with end-stage hallux rigidus underwent percutaneous first MTP joint arthrodesis with calcaneus autograft performed by a single surgeon. Each patient underwent a minimum of 24 month clinical and radiographic follow up, including 3 month post operative computed tomography scans. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Foot Function Index (FFI) preoperatively and at final follow-up.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 27.3 months. Bone union was observed in 46 patients (93.9%). Mean time to union was 3.1 months. Nonunion rate was 6.1%. Overall complication rate was 12.2%. Mean pre- and postoperative VAS scores were 7.5 and 0.2, respectively (P < .0001). Mean pre- and postoperative total FFI values were 56.3 and 15.7 (P < .0001), respectively. Patient satisfaction after the procedure was 93.9%.

CONCLUSION

Observed union rate is comparable to the average fusion rate previously reported for open and minimally invasive procedure union rates. Mean time to union was observed to be comparable to open procedures union time. Observed overall complication rate is similar to those reported for open techniques as well. Patient reported outcomes demonstrated a significant reduction in postoperative VAS and FFI for the percutaneous metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis with calcaneus bone autograft. Patient satisfaction rates compared favorably to those reported following open surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

LEVEL IV

The Outcome of the Use of Continuous Action Compression Device for the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Fusion

INTRODUCTION

First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint fusion is a widely accepted surgical intervention for treating severe arthritis, deformities, and instability of the first MTP joint. This paper provides a review of a single surgeon's experience with continuous compression implants (CCI), which offer a notable advantage by providing uniform compression across a larger surface area of the fusion site compared to plate and screw constructs. This design potentially reduces soft tissue irritation and, consequently, the need for subsequent implant removal. It also saves on cost and has the potential to reduce the length of surgery.

METHODS

 A retrospective review was conducted on 27 patients (n=36 feet) who underwent primary first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) fusion using continuous compression implants (CCI) between March 2020 and April 2024 at Bradford Royal Infirmary. Patient data were collected from the surgeon's logbook and medical records. The outcomes analyzed included the fusion rate and complications. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0, with p<0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

 The mean age of the cohort was 60.24 years (range 41-90), with 88.88% female. The ratio of left to right was 70%. The mean follow-up duration was 27 months (range 6-48 months). Complete fusion of the first MTPJ was achieved in 34 out of 36 feet (94.4%). Nonunion occurred in one patient, while delayed union was observed in another. Clinically, 35 out of 36 patients (97.3%) reported satisfaction with the procedure, with one patient requiring metalwork removal and revision due to loosening.

CONCLUSION

Early results show that the rate of fusion achieved by using the CCI for the first MTPJ arthrodesis in our series was comparable to that of other devices quoted in the literature.

Primary Isolated Arthrodesis of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint for Hallux Rigidus: Clinical, Radiologic, and Pedobarographic Evaluation

Background

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is an effective treatment of advanced hallux rigidus. Numerous options have been described for performing this intervention. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes following a consistent surgical technique of joint preparation with hand tools and fixation with 2 crossed screws and a dorsal compression plate.

Methods

Thirteen patients (16 feet) who underwent primary isolated arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint between March 2019 and June 2021 were available for clinical, radiologic, and pedobarographic evaluation at a minimum of 12 months after surgery. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society scores, numerical pain rating scale, the radiologic hallux valgus and intermetatarsal 1-2 angles as well as the distribution of plantar pressure during gait were compared between the pre- and postoperative conditions.

Results

After an average follow-up period of 26 months, union was achieved in all cases and the mean AOFAS score raised significantly by 39 points. All the patients were satisfied with the result. Only 1 patient complained of mild residual pain at walk. Hardware removal was performed in 2 cases. The mean hallux valgus angle dropped from 12.3 to 6.3 degrees. The mean postoperative dorsiflexion angle was 21.6 degrees. After the procedure, peak pressure was significantly higher beneath the first metatarsal head and heel, whereas pressure-time integral was significantly lower beneath the hallux and medial lesser toes.

Conclusion

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with 2 crossed screws and a dorsal compression plate is a safe and effective treatment of advanced hallux rigidus. This procedure provides adequate pain relief and functional improvement of gait.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, therapeutic, retrospective case series.

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint for severe hallux valgus in adolescents with cerebral palsy: A retrospective comparison study of three surgical techniques

Purpose

We compared the outcomes of arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint for severe hallux valgus in 31 adolescents with cerebral palsy, using three different methods of fixation: K-wires, non-locking plates, and locking plates.

Methods

Clinical outcomes included time to weight-bearing, fusion rates and surgical complications. Radiographic assessment included comparing pre- and post-operative hallux valgus angles, intermetatarsal angles, interphalangeal angles, and lateral metatarsophalangeal angles. Patient-reported outcomes included pre- and post-operative visual analogue scales addressing bunion pain and concerns, difficulties with wearing shoes and braces, and difficulties with foot hygiene.

Results

Of the 31 adolescents (16 male), 10 patients had K-wire fixation, 11 had a non-locking dorsal plate, and 10 had fixation with a dorsal locking plate. Mean age at surgery was 16 years (12-18 years) and mean follow-up was 4 years (2.7-6.5 years). Patients with K-wire fixation had delayed weight-bearing and had more complications than those managed by dorsal plating. There were significant improvements in radiographic parameters (except interphalangeal angle) and in patient-reported outcomes, in all groups (p < 0.001). However, radiographic and clinical outcomes were better in the dorsal plating groups compared to the K-wire group.

Conclusion

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint gave good correction of deformity with improvements in symptoms and radiographic parameters in adolescents with cerebral palsy. We recommend dorsal plating that allowed early weight-bearing and had fewer complications with better clinical and radiographic outcomes, than K-wire fixation.

Level of evidence

IV: Retrospective case series.

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.

Arthroscopic Sesamoidectomy and Plantar Metatarsal Head Bone Shaving in Management of First Metatarsal Head Metatarsalgia After First Metatarsophalangeal Fusion

First metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis has been used to treat end-stage arthritis of the great toe (e.g., gout, post-traumatic, infection), severe hallux valgus deformity, hallux valgus caused by neuromuscular disorders, rheumatoid forefoot deformity, primary hallux varus, and rigid plantarflexion deformities, as well as a salvage procedure for failed previous operation of the great toe. As with any arthrodesis procedure, proper positioning of the hallux in first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis is of utmost importance for good clinical outcome. The chief problem tends to be sagittal alignment. In case of the significant dorsiflexion malunion of the fusion site with excessive plantar pressure of the first metatarsophalangeal joint and abutment of the hallux to the shoebox, corrective osteotomy is indicated. If there is isolated excessive plantar pressure of the first metatarsophalangeal joint without hallux problem, arthroscopic sesamoidectomy and bone shaving of the plantar side of the first metatarsal head is another surgical option. The purpose of this technical note is to describe the details of arthroscopic sesamoidectomy and bone shaving of the plantar side of the first metatarsal head.

Arthroscopic Arthrodesis of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint in Hallux Valgus Deformity Using Medial and Toe Web Portals

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is indicated for severe hallux valgus deformity. Open arthrodesis requires extensive soft-tissue dissection. Recently, a technique of arthroscopic first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis in hallux valgus deformity has been reported. This approach includes endoscopic lateral release of the first metatarsophalangeal joint via the plantar and toe web portals, followed by arthroscopic arthrodesis of the joint via the medial and dorsolateral portals. Endoscopic lateral release of the first metatarsophalangeal joint can convert the fixed hallux valgus deformity into a flexible one and reduce the stress over the screws and risk of loss of reduction and nonunion. The purpose of this Technical Note is to report a modified technique of arthroscopic first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis in hallux valgus deformity. In this modified technique, the arthrodesis is performed via the medial and toe web portals and creation of the dorsolateral portal is not needed. A 2.7-mm arthroscope is used for the arthrodesis procedure instead of a 1.9-mm arthroscope. This can improve fluid inflow and visualization.

Non-union incidence of different joint preparation types, joint fixation techniques, and postoperative weightbearing protocols for arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in moderate-to-severe hallux valgus: a systematic review

Purpose

A systematic review to determine the effect of different types of joint preparation, joint fixation, and postoperative weight-bearing protocols on non-union frequency in first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus.

Material and methods

A systematic literature search (PubMed and EMBASE), adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data on MTPJ preparation, fixation, weight-bearing, and non-union in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus were collected. Quality assessment was performed using the Coleman Methodology Score.

Results

Sixteen studies (934 feet) were included, generally of medium quality. Overall non-union rate was 7.7%. At 6.3%, convex/concave joint preparation had the lowest non-union rate vs 12.2% for hand instruments and 22.2% for planar cuts. Non-union of 2.8% was found for joint fixation with a plate combined with a lag screw vs 6.5% for plate fixation, 11.1% for crossed screw fixation, and 12.5% for a plate with a cross plate compression screw. A 5.1% non-union frequency was found following postoperative full weight-bearing on a flat shoe vs 9.3% for full weight-bearing on a heel weight-bearing shoe and 0% for a partial weight-bearing regimen.

Conclusion

Based on medium-quality papers, joint preparation with convex/concave reamers and joint fixation with a plate using a lag screw show the lowest non-union rate. Full postoperative weight-bearing in a stiff-soled postoperative shoe is safe and not associated with non-union vs a more protective load-bearing regimen. Further research should focus on larger sample sizes, longer follow-ups, and stronger study designs.