Early results of first metatarsophalangeal joint replacement using the ToeFit-Plus™ prosthesis

The aim of the present study was to investigate the outcomes of first metatarsophalangeal replacement for hallux rigidus using the Smith & Nephew ToeFit-Plus™ implant. We assessed the outcomes of 69 first metatarsophalangeal joint replacements using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score preoperatively and annually postoperatively, with retrospective radiologic review. All operations were performed by the same surgeon within 2 centers. A total of 69 arthroplasties were performed within the study period (57 patients). The median American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score at 1 year was 100 (interquartile range 100 to 100), at 2 years was 100 (interquartile range 95 to 100), at 3 years was 100 (interquartile range 87.5 to 100), and at 4 years, it was 100 (interquartile range 91.25 to 100). Radiolucencies around the phalangeal component were seen in 23 cases; however, this was symptomatic in only 2 patients, who required revision surgery. Our early results have shown that first metatarsophalangeal joint replacement surgery with the ToeFit-Plus™ prosthesis results in significant improvements in the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores for most patients; however, longer term follow-up is required to monitor the clinical effect of radiolucency around the phalangeal component.