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Soft-tissue arthroplasty for hallux rigidus.
Michael J Coughlin1, Paul J Shurnas
1Regional Orthopaedic Health Care, Mountain Home, AR, USA. FOOTMD@aol.com
Foot & Ankle International
|October 4, 2003
Summary
Soft-tissue interposition arthroplasty effectively treated severe hallux rigidus, significantly reducing pain and improving function. This surgical technique offers a viable alternative to fusion for select patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Foot and Ankle Surgery
Background:
- Severe hallux rigidus significantly impacts foot function and quality of life.
- Current treatment options for severe hallux rigidus include arthrodesis (fusion) or joint replacement, each with limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of soft-tissue interposition arthroplasty for severe hallux rigidus.
- To assess pain reduction, functional improvement, and range of motion following the procedure.
Main Methods:
- Seven patients with severe hallux rigidus underwent soft-tissue interposition arthroplasty.
- The procedure involved joint decompression and insertion of a soft-tissue tendon bundle as a biologic spacer.
- Patients were evaluated at an average follow-up of 42 months.
Main Results:
- All seven patients reported good to excellent outcomes with substantial pain reduction.
- The mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score improved from 46 to 86.
- Mean MTP joint dorsiflexion increased from 9 to 34 degrees, with good plantarflexion strength.
Conclusions:
- Soft-tissue interposition arthroplasty provides excellent pain relief and reliable function for severe hallux rigidus.
- This technique is a promising alternative to MTP arthrodesis in select cases.
- Further research may explore long-term outcomes and patient selection criteria.