Abstract
Introduction
Minimally Invasive foot surgery remains controversial. Potential benefits include a reduced incidence of wound complications, faster return to employment and normal footwear. There are no studies published regarding the results of minimally invasive dorsal cheilectomy.
Patients and Methods
Thirty eight patients with painful grade I hallux rigidus underwent dorsal cheilectomy between April 2006 and June 2010. Minimally invasive cheilectomy (MIC) was introduced in August 2009. AOFAS scores, satisfaction, return to normal shoes and employment were assessed.
Results
Twenty two patients had open cheilectomy (OC) whilst 16 had MIC. Mean follow-up was 6 months for the MIC group and 35 months for the OC group. Mean AOFAS score was 75/100 (SD 17) in the MIC group and 70/100 (SD 18). Patients rated their satisfaction as 9.1/10 for MIC and 8.6/10 for OC. There was no significant difference in time to return to normal shoes (P = 0.32) or employment (P = 0.07). Two patients (one MIS, one OC) had a superficial wound infection which resolved with oral antibiotics. One patient had a first metatarsophalangeal joint fusion in the MIS group. Two patients in the OC group went on to have a first metatarsophalangeal joint fusion and one underwent joint resurfacing.
Discussion
These results suggest MIC has comparable early results to OC. Larger studies are required to further establish the benefits of MIC.
Conclusion
Minimally invasive dorsal cheilectomy seems to offer a safe alternative to open cheilectomy with promising early results. Patient satisfaction with this procedure is very high.
