Adjacent Joint Arthrodesis Risk After First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis: A 10 Year FollowUp Study

CATEGORY: Midfoot/Forefoot INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE: Arthrodesis remains the gold standard for end stage symptomatic first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint osteoarthritis. Based on several ankle arthrodesis studies, it is well known that adjacent joints are put under more stress leading to secondary osteoarthritis. However, the direct association between first MTPJ arthrodesis and the progression of adjacent joint arthrosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the progression of interphalangeal (IPJ) and 1st tarsometarsal joint (1st TMT) degeneration following first MTP joint arthrodesis. METHODS: All patients treated with first MTP joint arthrodesis from 2003 to 2008 were identified from our regional centre. Data was obtained from our institution’s electronic clinical workstation which included demographic information, radiographs and clinical letters. A telephone survey with a predetermined written script was carried out in patients as we were not able to obtain ethics to perform repeat radiographs. RESULTS: A total of 166 first MTPJ arthrodesis were included with at least 10 year follow-up. We excluded patients who have moved out of region. There was a 3:1 female to male ratio, with an average age at time of operation being 63 (27- 83). 25% of the patients reported adjacent joint pain (15% at IPJ, 10% at 1st TMTJ) at final follow up. 3 (1.8%) patients required arthrodesis of adjacent joints (1 at IPJ, 2 at 1st TMTJ). CONCLUSION: This study improves the understanding of biomechanical impact on the foot following 1st MTPJ fusion and is helpful in the consenting process.