Revision of the Keller’s procedure – pilot study

Abstract

Keller’s excisional arthroplasty has become a popular procedure for the treatment of osteoarthrosis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, and exceptional rates of success have been reported in the literature. However, a number of reports on its limitations have also been published. We report our technique and the results of a pilot study in 3 patients for the revision of a failed Keller’s procedure. Arthrodesis of the first MTP joint was performed in patients after a Keller’s procedure had failed. A 1/3 semitubular plate was used to stabilize an interposition bone graft, between the first metatarsal and proximal phalanx. Postoperative follow-up ranged from 6 to 18 months (mean 8 months). Each patient reported excellent pain relief and return to full mobility.