Treatment of aseptic loosened MTPI prosthesis by one-stage revision with ToeFit Plus™ prosthesis

Currently, there are a lot of different surgical treatments for hallux rigidus, such as cheilectomy; first metatarsal osteotomies, hemiarthroplasty, arthroplastry and arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ), and all of them have both advantages and disadvantages. To date, there is no single approach to choosing a method of surgical treatment of hallux rigidus. The autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC) technique is known to be quite successfully used for the treatment of osteochondral defects in the knee, hip, and ankle joints. Objective : to study the immediate results of first MTPJ chondroplasty using the AMIC technique in patients with hallux rigidus. Subjects and methods. As of now, MTPJ chondroplasty using the AMIC technique has been performed at the Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology in the first 9 patients with hallux rigidus. The surgery was made on both sides in one patient; there were accordingly a total of 10 above operations. The patients' mean age was 42.2+19.5 (range 20—71) years. During the examination, the investigators determined the range of motion in the first MTPJ, the intensity of pain on a visual analogue scale (VAS); foot status according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale; as well as the foot function index (FFI) and the functional condition of the foot and ankle (FA) joints according to VAS-FA. Prior to surgery, all the patients experienced significantly restricted motions in the first MTPJ. The median range of motion in the first MTPJ was 20°; Pain intensity was 70 mm; the AOFAS score was 52; FFI — 6.4; the VAS-FA — 4.1. First MTPJ chondroplasty was performed according to the AMIC technique using the Chondro-Gide and Aesculap Novocart Basic collagen matrices. The results of surgical treatment were assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Results and discussion. Just 3 months after surgery, there was a pronounced significant reduction in first MTPJ pain. Its median decreased from 70 to 27.5 mm. After 6 months, there were also positive changes; the median pain was 10 mm. It remained at a level of 10 mm by the end of the first year of the observation. The median AOFAS scores increased from 52 to 78.5 and 90 at 3 and 6 months after surgery, respectively, and remained at the same level at 12 months. The median FFI decreased from 6.4 to 2.3, 1.1, and 0.8 at 3, 6, and 12 months following chondroplasty, respectively. The median VAS-FA scores were 8.1, 9.3, and 9.6 at 3, 6, and 12 months after chondroplasty. At 3 months postoperatively, the range of first MTPJ motion also increased significantly: its median rose from 20° to 60°; it was 65° at 6 months and increased to 67.5° at 12 months. First MTPJ chondroplasty with the AMIC technique in these patients resulted in positive changes that were maximal at 3 months after the surgery: the median pain decreased by 42.5 mm; AOFAS, FFI, and VAS-FA scores increased by 26.5, 2.1, and 4.0, respectively. Of great importance is also the increase in first MTPJ motion range, the median of which rose by 40° at 3 moths. The positive changes also persisted 6 months postoperatively. During this period, there was a further decrease in the median pain by 17.5 mm and increases in the median AOFAS, FFI, and VAS-FA scores by 12.5, 1.2, and 1.2, respectively. At 12 months of the follow up, the achieved improvement remained; however, the number of observations at this stage does not allow for adequate statistical analysis. Conclusion. The immediate results of the performed operations showed that first MTPJ chondroplasty using a collagen matrix can be a rather effective surgical treatment that makes it possible to relieve pain and to significantly improve quality of life in patients with hallux rigidus. A more complete evaluation of the efficiency of first MTPJ chondroplasty using the AMIC technique will be provided by studying the medium-term and long-term outcomes of the surgery.

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Other Introduction/ Purpose: Hallux rigidus is characterized by arthritic changes of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) with joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, and painful MTPJ motion. Although MTPJ arthrodesis is considered the “gold standard,” a Modified Oblique Keller Capsular Interposition Arthroplasty (MOKCIA) is an alternative treatment for hallux rigidus in patients who desire to retain MTPJ motion. The purpose of this study is to compare long-term outcomes (patient satisfaction, radiographic alignment, MTPJ walking kinematics, and plantar pressure) between the MOKCIA and 1st MTPJ arthrodesis. We hypothesized that patients undergoing MOKCIA will retain motion, but when compared to Arthrodesis at long-term follow-up, some MOKCIA patients may develop abnormal forefoot loading, toe malalignment and need revision. Methods: 26 patients who underwent a MOKCIA (n=14, 74±7 years old, 9 female, average 15 years from surgery) or an arthrodesis (n=12, 70±4 years old, 6 female, average 13 years from surgery) were recruited from a retrospective chart review (January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2018). Study measures included 11-point visual analog scale (VAS) Pain and satisfaction, Foot and Ankle Assessment Measure (FAAM) and PROMIS physical function scores, weight bearing radiographs (MTPJ valgus and 1st proximal phalanx to ground sagittal), walking MTPJ (first phalanx relative to forefoot) sagittal plane kinematics, forefoot and 1st toe peak plantar pressure during walking, MTPJ goniometer range of motion, and number of additional 1st MTPJ surgical interventions required. Two-sample t-tests or Chi-square were used to compare groups. Results: Groups did not differ on demographic characteristic or patient reported outcomes [VAS Pain (MOKCIA=0.1±0.3, Arthrodesis=1.2±1.8, p=0.06), satisfaction (MOKCIA=9.4±0.9, Arthrodesis=8.3±1.6, p=0.054), FAAM (MOKCIA=94±9, Arthrodesis=95±7, p=0.65), PROMIS (MOKCIA=50±6, Arthrodesis=48±6, p=0.41)]. MTPJ valgus was increased in the Arthrodesis group (MOKCIA=4±5°, Arthrodesis=7±4°, p=0.05). First phalanx to ground was more plantarflexed in the MOKCIA group (MOKCIA=9±7°, Arthrodesis=1±7°, p=0.01)]. Walking MTPJ excursion was greater in the MOKCIA group (MOKCIA=25±9°, Arthrodesis=13±8°, p< 0.001). There was no group difference in forefoot and 1st toe walking peak plantar pressure (Forefoot: MOKCIA=111±29 N/cm2, Arthrodesis=127±22 N/cm2, p=0.12 and Toe: MOKCIA=77±28 N/cm2, Arthrodesis=101±41 N/cm2, p=0.10). MTPJ extension range of motion was greater in the MOKCIA group (MOKCIA=48°±13, Arthrodesis=25°±8, p< 0.001). One person in the Arthrodesis group required hardware removal, but no MOKCIA patient required additional surgery. Conclusion: More than 10 years of follow-up after surgery, patients in both MOKCIA and Arthrodesis groups had little pain, were similarly satisfied, and reported high function with little limitation due to their toe surgery. Radiograph alignment showed no progressive deformity in the MOKCIA group and patients were able to retain MTPJ extension range of motion during walking. Plantar pressures were not impacted by surgical intervention. No MOKCIA patient required revision. These results suggest MOKCIA is a reasonable alternative option compared to first MTPJ arthrodesis for long term treatment of hallux rigidus in patients who desire to preserve toe range of motion.

Introduction Arthrodesis is the “gold standard” for the treatment of stage 3–4 osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. However, restricted movements in the joint can lead to changes in the biomechanics of the foot overloading the adjacent joints and are accompanied by decreased activity which is important for younger patients. The available implants of the first MTP joint have some disadvantages and an original hemiarthroplasty of the first MTP joint was developed.The objective was to demonstrate an original technique of hemiarthroplasty of the first MTP joint and installation to treat stage 3–4 hallux rigidus.Material and methods The hemiendoprosthesis is made of zirconium ceramics. The head of the hemiendoprosthesis is made with a low profile. The cross-section of the stem has a four-bladed shape to ensure rotational stability of the implant. The hemiendoprosthesis can be placed using specially designed instruments. A case of a 74-year-old patient diagnosed with stage 3 osteoarthritis of the first MTP joint is reported.Results AOFAS Hallux scored 28 and 95, VAS scored 9 and 0 and FFI scored 112 and 6 preoperatively and at 24 months, respectively. The range of motion in the joint (extension/flexion) measured 0°–0°–5° preoperatively and 60°–0°–15° at 24 months. The dynamic pedobarography indicated to the physiological distribution of pressure in the foot being restored postoperatively.Discussion The first implants offered to replace first MTP joint were made of silicone and metal alloys and total joint arthroplasty was associated with significant resection of bone tissue; cases of endoprosthetic instability were reported. Hemiarthroplasty appeared to be a sparing technique. However, implants made of metal alloys could have an aggressive effect on the opposite articular surface. Hemiarthroplasty of the first MTP joint using a zirconium ceramic implant could minimize the risk of the complications.Conclusion Hemiarthroplasty of the first MTP joint using an original zirconium ceramic implant was shown to be effective for patients with stage 3–4 hallux rigidus. The technique reported can be a good alternative to arthrodesis of MTP joint.

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Joint Preservation in the Rheumatoid Forefoot: Commentary on an article by Junichi Kushioka, MD, et al.: "Modified Scarf Osteotomy with Medial Capsule Interposition for Hallux Valgus in Rheumatoid Arthritis. A Study of Cases Including Severe First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Destruction".

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of shortening scarf osteotomy on pain relief and range of motion (ROM) of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in hallux rigidus patients. Materials and Methods: Twenty-three cases of 19 patients who had been treated with shortening scarf osteotomy for the hallux rigidus between January 2007 and December 2013 were reviewed. The mean follow-up period was 21.4 months, and the mean age was 59.2 years. The first metatarsal bone was shortened until the ROM of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was greater than 80° or 40° of dorsiflexion. The length shortened by scarf osteotomy was measured. The authors also measured and compared the joint interval difference of the standing foot using an anteroposterior radiography. Moreover, the difference of ROM of the first metatarsophalangeal joint between the preoperative and final follow-up periods was also compared. The clinical results were evaluated and compared using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring system and visual analogue scale (VAS) score. Results: The mean shortening length was about 6.5 mm (range, 4∼9 mm). The joint space has been increased to 1.8 mm, and the ROM of the first metatarsophalangeal joint has also been increased to 18.4° after the operation. In three cases, the postoperative ROM has been decreased to less 10°. The AOFAS score has been improved from 41.7 (range, 32∼55) to 86.2 (range, 65∼95), and the VAS score was also decreased from 3.7 (range, 3∼5) to 1.3 (range, 0∼3). Two cases have shown no decrease in pain even after the operation. Conclusion: Shortening scarf osteotomy was found to decrease joint pain by decompressing the pressure of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. This osteotomy also helped improve the ROM of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Shortening scarf osteotomy can be considered one of the effective methods for joint preservation.

The Use of Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis as a Surgical Treatment for Patients with the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Osteoarthritis: Immediate and Medium-Term Results.

Lesser metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint instability is a common cause of forefoot pain. Advances in operative technique and instrumentation have made it possible to anatomically treat plantar plate tears through a dorsal approach. Our goal was to evaluate the subjective, functional, and radiographic outcomes of plantar plate repair (PPR) from a dorsal approach. A prospective case series was performed evaluating the results of PPR in 97 feet with 138 plantar plate tears. Patients underwent PPR from a dorsal approach with a Weil osteotomy. We followed patients at regular intervals for 12 months and collected data preoperatively and postoperatively with respect to visual analog scale (VAS) scores, MTP range of motion (ROM), paper pull-out test, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, satisfaction, and radiographic measures. Eighty percent of patients scored "good" to "excellent" satisfaction scores at 12 months. The mean VAS pain score preoperatively was 5.4/10, and postoperatively was 1.5/10. The mean AOFAS scores increased from 49 to 81 points following surgery. The mean MTP ROM preoperatively was 43 degrees and postoperatively 31 degrees. Forty-two percent of toes passed the paper pull out test prior to surgery and 54% at 12 months. Mean metatarsal shortening was 2.4/3.1/1.2 mm for the second, third, and fourth metatarsals, respectively. The mean MTP joint angles preoperatively were 2/4.9/-1.3 degrees and postoperatively were 7.4/9.6/0.2 degrees, respectively, for the second, third, and fourth MTP joints. We found that the plantar plate could be repaired through a dorsal approach with reliable outcomes. PPR was a viable option to anatomically restore the ligamentous support in the unstable lesser MTP joint. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Advanced-stage arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ), or “Hallux Rigidus” (HR) is a common forefoot pathology. When surgery is indicated, arthroplasty is an alternative to arthrodesis, which aims to preserve MTPJ dorsiflexion. Since it is unclear whether total-toe or hemi-toe devices are preferred implants in MTPJ arthroplasty, we completed a systematic review of the literature and did a meta analysis to test which type of implants clinically outperform in hallux rigidus. Methods: A systematic review of MTPJ arthroplasty was performed using Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane library for the years 2000 to 2017. Data was extracted from articles containing both preoperative and postoperative endpoints for either hemi or total MTPJ arthroplasty cases. To be eligible for inclusion, studies must have had a mean follow-up window of at least 24 months and standard deviation of outcome. Total eleven studies were included for review, seven studies with hemi replacement and six studies with total arthroplasty. Pooled mean values were calculated, and a forest plot was created comparing pre-and post-operative American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), visual analogue scale (VAS), and range of motion (ROM) results for both hemi-toe and total-toe arthroplasty. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. Results: Mean postoperative AOFAS scores in patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty improved by 50.7 points (95%CI: 48.5, 52.8), which was higher than the mean postoperative AOFAS improvement of 40.6 points (95%CI: 38.5, 42.8) seen in total-toe patients. Mean postoperative VAS improvement in hemiarthroplasty was 6.05 points (95%CI: 5.92, 6.18), which was comparable to the mean VAS improvement of 6.29 points (95%CI: 6.02, 6.55) seen in total arthroplasty. Mean postoperative MTPJ ROM improved by 43.0 degrees (95%CI: 39.3, 46.6) in hemi-toe patients, which exceeded the mean ROM improvement of 32.5 degrees (95%CI: 29.9, 35.1) found in total-toe cases. A meta-analysis of the data revealed non-significant statistical trends for AOFAS and ROM in favor of hemiarthroplasty. Conclusion: Hemi-surface implants in MTPJ arthroplasty may improve postoperative AOFAS and ROM results to a greater extent than total-toe devices. High-quality randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm long-term surgical outcomes in these patients.

Our purpose in this study was to determine the effects of cheilectomy on the mechanics of dorsiflexion of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Ten fresh-frozen cadaver feet were utilized, of which two demonstrated radiographic evidence of hallux rigidus. Each specimen was rigidly mounted on a custom-made slide tray that was articulated with a hinge mechanism designed to dorsiflex the first MTP joint. Range-of-motion measurements were made on the first MTP joint. Cheilectomy of 30% of the metatarsal head diameter was performed. Lateral radiographs with the beam centered on the MTP joint were taken with the joint at neutral, 20 degrees, 40 degrees, and at the limits of dorsiflexion. This process was repeated after a 50% cheilectomy was performed. The radiographs were examined for changes in joint congruence and in patterns of surface motion as the hallux moved from neutral to full dorsiflexion. Instant centers of rotation were determined by a method first described by Rouleaux. We constructed surface velocity vectors to describe patterns of motion of the first MTP joint. The mean dorsiflexion of the first MTP joint was 67.9 degrees and increased to 78.3 degrees after 30% cheilectomy. The increase in dorsiflexion was significantly greater in the two specimens with hallux rigidus (33%) than in the other specimens (12.1%). After both levels of cheilectomy, the proximal phalanx demonstrated pivoting at the resection site on the metatarsal head. This pivoting resulted in abnormal motion patterns across the MTP joint. Normal sliding motion predominated in early dorsiflexion, with compression peaking at the end stage of dorsiflexion, producing jamming of the articular surfaces. Cheilectomy significantly increased dorsiflexion of the MTP joint, but resulted in abnormal motion patterns. The increase in dorsiflexion resulted from pivoting of the proximal phalanx on the metatarsal head, resulting in anomalous velocity vectors and compression across the MTP joint.

Although metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis is considered the "gold standard" for treatment of advanced MTPJ arthritis, a modified oblique Keller capsular interposition arthroplasty (MOKCIA) is an alternative treatment for hallux rigidus that retains MTPJ motion. We aim to retrospectively compare long-term patient-reported outcomes, radiographic alignment, MTPJ walking kinematics, and plantar pressure between the MOKCIA and MTPJ arthrodesis for advanced hallux rigidus. Thirty-five patients were recruited from a retrospective chart review (MOKCIA [n = 15, average 15 years from surgery] or an arthrodesis [n = 20, average 13 years from surgery]). We measured visual analog scale (VAS) pain and satisfaction, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) physical function scores, radiographs, walking MTPJ sagittal plane kinematics, forefoot, and first toe peak plantar pressure during walking, MTPJ goniometer range of motion, and need for additional surgery. Two-sample t tests or χ2 were used to compare groups. A Spearman correlation was used to examine the relationships between measured variables. Groups did not differ on demographic characteristics, FAAM activities of daily living scale (MOKCIA = 94 ± 8, arthrodesis = 94 ± 7, P = .93), PROMIS physical function T-score (MOKCIA = 50 ± 6, arthrodesis = 48 ± 6, P = .41), forefoot, and first-toe walking peak plantar pressure. The MOKCIA had small but significantly lower VAS pain (MOKCIA = 0.1 ± 0.3, arthrodesis = 1.0 ± 1.6, P = .02) and higher satisfaction scores (MOKCIA = 9.5 ± 0.9, arthrodesis = 8.4 ± 1.8, P = .03). MTPJ passive arc of excursion in the MOKCIA group was 44 ± 15 degrees, and greater goniometric measured flexion of the first MTPJ correlated with greater patient satisfaction in the MOKCIA group (ρ = 0.70, P < .01). No MOKCIA patient in our study group required additional surgery. Patients in both the MOKCIA and arthrodesis groups reported high function with little limitation due to their toe surgery. Patients in the MOKCIA group had similar pain and satisfaction compared with the arthrodesis group. These results suggest MOKCIA is a joint range of motion-preserving alternative to MTPJ arthrodesis for long-term treatment of hallux rigidus. Level III, retrospective, cohort study.

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Hallux rigidus, or 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint degeneration, is commonly encountered in foot and ankle practice. Operative management can include a dorsal cheilectomy, a motion sparing procedure to reduce impingement. Hallux rigidus affects patients across all age groups, and etiologies may include trauma, first ray hypermobility, pes planus, or hallux valgus. First MTP joint trauma may result in an osteochondral defect (OCD). Literature is sparse regarding OCD management in the 1st MTPJ, as is follow-up data on cheilectomy using validated outcome measures. We hypothesize that the presence of an OCD is associated with symptomatic hallux rigidus at a lower Coughlin and Shurnas grade. We also hypothesize that OCD treatment concurrent with cheilectomy leads to outcomes equivalent to patients treated with isolated hallux rigidus. Methods: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed. All patients of a single surgeon were reviewed based on the CPT code (28289) for cheilectomy from 1/1/2011 to 12/31/2015. Demographic data, presence/drilling of an OCD on operative reports, and Coughlin grading were recorded. All patients had taken the FAAM and SF-36 preoperatively per the surgeon’s routine preoperative data collection. After approval by the institutional review board, all patients were contacted by telephone for follow-up and answered the FAAM, SF-36 and Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) questionnaires. Visual analog scores (VAS), patient satisfaction, complications, and whether they would opt for surgery again were recorded.Paired T-tests were performed to evaluate improvement in FAAM activity of daily living (ADL), FAAM sport, SF-36 physical component scores (PCS), and SF-36 mental component scores (MCS). Two-tailed T-tests were performed to evaluate the difference in groups with and without OCDs. Results: Seventy-one patients met inclusion criteria. Follow-up was obtained from 28 patients (29 feet) for analysis, 10 with OCDs. Mean responder age was 53.1 years (32.6-70.9), with average 4 year follow-up (minimum 2 years). Patients with OCDs had lower Coughlin grade (p&lt;0.01) and trended towards lower age (p=0.07), but similar improvement in FAAM sport (p=0.43), SF-36 PCS (p=0.33), and MCS (p=0.46). Patients with OCDs trended towards greater improvement in FAAM ADL (p=0.07). The entire cohort demonstrated significant improvements (p&lt;0.01) in ADL, Sport, PCS, and MCS after cheilectomy. ADL and Sport scores met the MCID of 8 and 9 points, respectively. MCID is not well-defined for SF-36. One patient required subsequent fusion. Conclusion: Cheilectomy is an effective surgical option for improving function and pain in the setting of hallux rigidus, as measured at intermediate-term follow-up with validated patient outcome measures. Patients with a 1st MTP joint OCD become symptomatic at a younger age and with a lower radiographic grade of hallux rigidus. These patients demonstrate equivalent improvements in the FAAM sport, SF-36 PCS and MCS while trending towards greater improvement in the FAAM ADL score as those without OCDs. The presence and treatment of a 1st MTP joint OCD should be considered in younger patients with symptomatic hallux rigidus and lower radiographic severity.

Replacement Arthroplasty of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Using a Ceramic-Coated Endoprosthesis for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus

Minimally invasive Dorsal cheilectomy and Hallux metatarsophalangeal joint arthroscopy for the treatment of Hallux Rigidus

Introduction/Purpose: Minimally invasive dorsal cheilectomy (MIDC) has become a popular alternative to an open approach for treating Hallux Rigidus, although the current literature is divided on its effectiveness regarding complications and patient reported outcomes. To combat a portion of the complications related to the MIDC approach, a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthroscopy can often be added to the procedure. The combined procedure has been demonstrated to be effective at improving patient reported outcomes without increasing the complication rate relative to an open procedure. This study looks to examine the effectiveness of the MIDC with first MTP arthroscopy procedure in patients with hallux rigidus with minimum 1 year follow up. Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective review was conducted for adult patients treated with MIDC and first MTP arthroscopy between 3/1/2020 and 8/1/2022, with at least one year of postoperative follow-up data. Patient charts were reviewed for demographic information, operative time, pre and postoperative first MTP range of motion (ROM), visual analog scale (VAS), Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), and EQ5DLD scores. Continuous data was expressed as a mean and standard deviation, categorical data was expressed as a percentage. Wilcoxon Rank Sum test was used to compare continuous variables. All P &lt; 0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 31 patients were included in the study with an average follow-up time of 16.5 months (range: 12 to 26.2). There was 1 (3.2%) complication of an underservice EHL tendon tear, 2 (6.5%) patients were converted to a MTP fusion, and 1 (3.2%) patient underwent revision cheilectomy and capsular release for MTP joint contracture. There was a significant improvement in patient’s ROM in dorsiflexion (50 vs 89.6 degrees, P=0.002), but not in plantarflexion (11.3 vs 18.6 degrees, P=0.07). There was a significant improvement in patient’s postoperative VAS pain scores (6.4 vs 2.1, P&lt; 0.001), MOXFQ pain scores (58.1 vs 30.7, P=0.001), MOXFQ Walking/Standing scores (56.6 vs 20.6, P=0.001), MOXFQ Social Interaction scores (47.3 vs 19.36, P=0.002), and MOXFQ Index scores (54.7 vs 22.4, P&lt; 0.001). Conclusion: We found that MIDC with first MTP arthroscopy was effective at improving patient reported outcomes, specifically patient’s pain scores, at one year with low complication and revision rates. These results demonstrate MIDC and first MTP arthroscopy’s is an effective treatment for early-stage hallux rigidus and may be considered as an alternative to an open approach.