Metatarsophalangeal joint fusion of the great toe

Forty-eight metatarsophalangeal fusions of the great toe were performed for a variety of disorders and followed an average of 28 months. Over 80% of the results were graded as excellent or good. The single most important factor in achieving an excellent result was a solid bony fusion. The degree of valgus or extension in which the f oint was fused did not seem to be critical to the functional result. There was no clinically detectable alteration in gait with arthrodesis of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the great toe.