Functional Capabilities After First Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Using a Locking Plate and Compression...

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Podiatric Medicine
• Biomechanics

Background:

• First metatarsal phalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis is a common surgical intervention for various foot conditions.
• Understanding functional outcomes and patient satisfaction is crucial for evaluating the procedure's success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess functional limitations, patient satisfaction, and ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) after first MTPJ arthrodesis.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a compression screw/locking plate construct in first MTPJ arthrodesis.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study of 103 participants undergoing first MTPJ arthrodesis.
• Utilized American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) and Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire for functional assessment.
• Compared preoperative and postoperative weightbearing radiographs for Hallux Valgus Angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA).

Main Results:

• High patient satisfaction (97%) and ability to achieve ADLs postoperatively.
• Significant improvement in functional status with statistically significant differences in AOFAS scores (p <.05).
• Mean reduction in HVA of 21.78° and IMA of 6.84°, with 82.5% returning to nonadaptive footwear.

Conclusions:

• Compression screw/locking plate construct is safe and effective for first MTPJ arthrodesis.
• The procedure leads to high levels of functionality and patient satisfaction.
• First MTPJ arthrodesis successfully restores patient function and reduces deformities, enabling return to daily activities and footwear choices.