[Long-term outcome of arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint].

INTRODUCTION

Resection arthroplasty of the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint is a wellknown operation for hallux valgus. The follow-up results more than 17 years after arthroplasty are recorded and discussed.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Between 1971 and 1980, 335 arthroplasties were performed on 205 patients. The only indication for arthroplasty of the great toe was hallux valgus. The technique of arthroplasty was according to Keller-Brandes. 102 patients were reexamined clinically and radiographically, after 17.6 years on average.

RESULTS

Questionnaire assessment revealed a significantly prolonged walking distance and 70% of the patients were painfree at the time of investigation, whereas 67% suffered from severe pain before operation. Clinical evaluation showed diminished weightbearing of the great toe during walking and a reduced range of motion of the partial-resected first metatarsal-phalangeal joint. Radiographically the shortening of the phalangeal bone of 37% was evident as expected. Hallux-valgus-angle was 23 degrees at the time of investigation and 34 degrees preoperatively in the mean.

DISCUSSION

The high rate of hallux valgus relapse, especially due to a high intermetatarsal angle demonstrate unsatisfactory longterm results by the Keller-Brandes operation. We now recommend this operation for older patients and a differentiated approach according to the clinical and radiographical situation for younger patients.