A metallic hemiarthroplasty resurfacing prosthesis for the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint

Two-hundred seventy-nine arthritic hallux metatarsophalangeal joints treated surgically with a metallic resurfacing hemiarthroplasty over a 40-year period were reviewed. The implant, which is made available in three evenly graded sizes, is designed to replace only the articular surface of the proximal phalanx, with minimal resection of bone stock. The pathologic indications for surgery included classical hallux rigidus, rheumatoid arthritis, and degenerative changes associated with hallux valgus and bunion deformity. Follow-up at 8 months to 33 years after surgery revealed good or excellent clinical results in 95%. The time to follow-up was in excess of 5 years in 101 (36%) of the procedures, beyond 10 years in 62 (22%), and longer than 20 years in 23 (8%). Unlike other available surgical options for this debilitating condition, biomechanics of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint remained unaffected and problems associated with prosthetic wear or mechanical failure were not encountered.