Surgical considerations in hallux abducto valgus with rheumatoid arthritis.

The rheumatoid arthritis patient often suffers with forefoot complaints. The most frequently seen pedal deformities are hallux abducto valgus and metatarsus primus adductus. Various surgical procedures have been developed to treat these disabling problems. Arthroplasty has been successfully utilized to relieve pain, but often leaves an unpleasant cosmetic result due to shortening and possible return of the deformity. Arthrodesis and implant arthroplasty are alternatives, but introduce other risks and complications for the patient and surgeon.