Appropriate Distraction Strength for Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthroscopy.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Arthroscopy

Background:

• Understanding natural metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint distances is crucial for arthroscopic procedures.
• Factors like age, gender, and BMI may influence MTP joint space and distraction needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the natural MTP joint distances.
• To determine the appropriate degree of traction for MTP joint arthroscopy.
• To identify associated factors influencing MTP joint distraction.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-seven patients undergoing MTP joint arthroscopy or foot and ankle surgery were analyzed.
• Foot radiographs were taken under varying traction conditions (0-15 lbs).
• MTP joint distances were measured and compared with patient demographics (age, gender, BMI).

Main Results:

• The MTP-2 joint exhibited the largest natural joint space (2.39 ± 0.37 mm), while the MTP-5 joint had the smallest (1.59 ± 0.34 mm).
• Ten pounds of traction was suitable for MTP-1 and MTP-4 joints; 5 lbs was appropriate for MTP-2, MTP-3, and MTP-5 joints.
• Males showed significantly larger joint spaces than females for MTP-1 and MTP-4 joints across all traction levels. Age and BMI did not significantly affect joint space size.

Conclusions:

• The MTP-2 joint has the largest natural space, and the MTP-5 has the smallest.
• A 10 lb traction force is adequate for MTP joint arthroscopy.
• Males generally require less traction than females, particularly for the MTP-1 and MTP-4 joints.