High grade hallux rigidus is a forefoot deformity characterized by a limitation of dorsiflexion of the first toe associated with pain, and severe damage of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Most authors recommended resection arthroplasty or arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The aim of this study was to present the results of our series of 42 consecutive cases of severe hallux rigidus treated by resection of the first metatarsal head and implant of a poly D-L lactic (PDLLA) bioreabsorbable spacer to promote the interposition of fibrous tissue to preserve the range of motion of the joint. Forty-two feet in 27 patients affected by high grade hallux rigidus were included in the study. Surgical treatment consisted of resection of the first metatarsal head and positioning of a poly D-L lactic acid (PDLLA) bioreabsorbable implant. Post-operative care consisted in gauze bandage of the forefoot, and immediate weight-bearing with talus shoes for 3 weeks. All patients were clinically and radiographically evaluated preoperatively and checked at a mean 6 (5–7) year follow-up.Objective
Material and methods
Combined metatarso-phalangeal and inter-phalangeal deformity represents about 1% of hallux valgus deformity, and its treatment remains a debated topic, because a single osteotomy does not entirely correct the deformity and double osteotomies are needed. The aim of this study is to review the results of 50 consecutive combined metatarso-phalangeal and inter-phalangeal hallux valgus treated by Akin proximal phalangeal osteotomy and SERI minimally invasive distal metatarsal osteotomy. Fifty feet in 27 patients, aged between 18 and 75 years (mean 42 years) affected by symptomatic hallux valgus without arthritis were included. Two 1-cm medial incisions were performed at the metatarsal neck and at proximal phalanx. Then SERI osteotomy was performed to correct metatarso-phalangeal deformity and Akin osteotomy was performed to correct interphalangeal deformity. Both osteotomies were fixed with a single K-wire. A gauze bandage of the forefoot was applied and immediate weight-bearing on hindfoot was allowed. K-wire was removed after 4 weeks. All patients were checked at a mean 4 year follow-up.Objective
Material and Methods