Dorsal Cheilectomy

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Podiatric Medicine
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Hallux rigidus is a degenerative condition affecting the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
• Dorsal osteophyte formation is a common characteristic of hallux rigidus.
• Current treatments aim to alleviate pain and restore joint function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and advantages of dorsal cheilectomy for hallux rigidus.
• To highlight the benefits of this surgical approach in managing first metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis.
• To assess the suitability of dorsal cheilectomy for a broader range of hallux rigidus severity.

Main Methods:

• Surgical resection of the dorsal osteophyte from the first metatarsal head.
• Procedure performed on patients with hallux rigidus and minimal midrange joint pain.
• Focus on maintaining first metatarsophalangeal joint range of motion.

Main Results:

• Dorsal cheilectomy is a simple and rapid surgical technique.
• The procedure effectively preserves the range of motion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
• Associated with low morbidity and a quicker postoperative recovery period.
• Avoids the need for costly implants and does not preclude future fusion (arthrodesis).

Conclusions:

• Dorsal cheilectomy presents a favorable risk-benefit profile for hallux rigidus.
• Its advantages include simplicity, speed, motion preservation, and low complication rates.
• The procedure is advocated as a potentially effective treatment, even in cases with more extensive disease.