Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 1, 2026
Autologous Microfractured and Purified Adipose Tissue for Arthroscopic Management of Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Published on: January 23, 2018
Return to sport after first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis in elite athletes
Dror Maor1, Daniel Meyerkort2, Salar Sobhi3
1Fortius Clinic, London, United Kingdom; Academic Centre for Evidence-Based Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Department of Orthopaedics, Fremantle Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
Introduction:
Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) is a reliable procedure in alleviating pain and restoring function. However, there is limited published literature of the outcomes of this procedure and the ability to return to sport in elite athletes. This study aims to assess the outcomes of first MTPJ arthrodesis in the elite athlete population and their ability to return to professional sport.
Methods:
A single-center prospective case series of elite athletes undergoing first MTPJ arthrodesis between 2004 and 2016 was conducted. Patients were assessed a minimum of 2, 6, 12 weeks, and 1-year postoperation and at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and assessing satisfaction.
Results:
Sixteen elite athletes with a mean age of 27 years (range 19-32, 81 %) and mean follow-up of 81 months (range 60-121 months) were included. At 1-year postoperation, 12 (75 %) athletes returned to their original level of sport. Of the four unable to return, two soccer players dropped a division, an ATP tennis player never regained his original ranking, and a badminton player was unable to return to the same level of competition. Mean VAS scores improved from preoperation to final follow-up (5.6-0.4, p < 0.001). All FAOS subscores showed significant improvement from preoperation to final follow-up (all p < 0.05). All (100 %) athletes were either very satisfied or satisfied at final follow-up.
Conclusion:
To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating return to elite level sport post first MTPJ arthrodesis. Our results confirm that a significant majority will return to their elite level of sport post operatively. Improved clinical outcomes and pain reduction was achieved in all patients.
Level Of Evidence:
V.
More Related Videos
09:01Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018
05:07Author Spotlight: Implementing the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Concept in Rehabilitation Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Published on: March 1, 2024
Related Concept Videos
01:27Fractures: Bone Repair
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...