[Endoprosthetic replacement of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe].

The article reports on 20 cases of cup-plasties of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. 13 cups were done without, 7 with bone cement. The early results in both groups were promising. One third of all cases showed failure 2 years postoperatively. Fixation with bone cement leads to markedly better results. In cases of failure it is always possible to bring about a result comparable to resection arthroplasty (Brandes' operation) by removal of loose components. The reaction of cancellous bone under the metal cup can be compared with that of the double cup arthroplasty of the hip.