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Updated: Jul 12, 2026

Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018
Hallux metatarsophalangeal joint fusion for the rheumatoid forefoot
Benjamin W Stevens1, John G Anderson, Donald R Bohay
1Grand Rapids Medical Education and Research Center/Michigan State University Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program, 300 Lafayette, Suite 3400, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA. bw_stevens@hotmail.com
Abstract:
Forefoot problems in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis are common. The progressive joint destruction causes a redistribution of weight about the forefoot, with a diminished weightbearing capacity of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Changes around the first MTP joint include synovitis, joint instability with subluxation, and arthritic change. Hallux MTP fusion in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis acts to permanently restore alignment and restore the medial column support of the foot, while at the same time enabling the first MTP to resume its original weightbearing role. Rheumatoid hallux MTP fusion and its rationale are reviewed.
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