Radiographic results after hallux metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis for hallux varus

Abstract

Background: Hallux metatarsophalangeal (MP) joint arthrodesis for hallux varus is generally reserved for severe deformity, failed surgery or the development of osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to determine the radiologic results of arthrodesis of the hallux MP joint following treatment for hallux varus. Our hypothesis was that in the process of correcting the hallux valgus angle, the 1-2 intermetatarsal angle (1-2 IMA) and hallux valgus angle (HVA) will be improved due to correction of the deforming forces.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 26 patients with 29 feet that had symptomatic hallux varus deformities treated with arthrodesis of the hallux MP joint between September 1, 2002, and December 31, 2012. The 1-2 IMA and HVA were measured on the preoperative and most recent postoperative films and compared. Twenty-nine patients were followed with postoperative weight-bearing radiographs. Two were men and 24 were women. Twelve were performed on the right foot, 17 on the left, including 3 bilateral cases. Fourteen patients had concomitant procedures on the ipsilateral forefoot.

Results: The average 1-2 IMA changed from 4.8 degrees to 8.4 degrees, a difference of 3.6 degrees (P < .05), and the average HVA changed from -20.7 degrees to 8.1 degrees (P < .05).

Conclusion: Our study showed that a hallux MP joint arthrodesis in patients with hallux varus resulted in a predictable increase in the 1-2 IMA.

Level of evidence: Level IV, case series.

Keywords: hallux metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis; hallux varus; intermetatarsal angle.