Arthrodesis of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the great toe

Since 1975 the usual treatment of hallux valgus and hallux rigidus at the Medical High School, Lübeck, has been arthrodesis of the metatarophalangeal joint of the great toe. We report 48 operations performed between 1975 and 1977 on 35 patients with a follow-up of 3-32 months. The operative technique, using the "dynamic compression plate" is described in detail. The patient's assessment and the clinical and radiological situations were recorded. There were only three poor results. Thus, arthrodesis of the metatarsophalangeal joint is considered to be a reliable therapeutic method in hallux valgus, with minimal post-operative complications. It compares well with other operations, including Keller's arthroplasty.