title: [Early results of implantation of an unconstrained metatarsophalangeal joint prosthesis of the first toe].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Does the ReFlexion Implant System provide an alternative in operative treatment of hallux rigidus?
  
  
  METHODS
  We have been using the non-constrained prosthesis since April 1997. 26 implants were reviewed 13-41 months after insertion, analysing radiological and clinical data. A questionnaire was answered by the patients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Surgery was either performed cementless (8 cases), as a hybrid, i.e., only phalangeal part cemented (14 cases), or cemented in both components (4 cases). So far, 3 joint replacements had to be removed for pain. Radiological signs of loosening around the cemented phalangeal components were evident in 11 cases. There was no correlation between radiological loosening and discomfort.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The implant can reduce pain distinctly. Patients satisfaction with the treatment is relatively high. The range of movement in the first MTP is still limited. In our opinion the ReFlexion Prosthesis can be quoted as an acceptable alternative for surgical treatment in advanced cases of hallux rigidus. In case of failure a conversion to the distraction-arthrodesis is possible.
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Orthopädie, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena am Waldkrankenhaus Rudolf-Elle gGmbH, Eisenberg.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Notni
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fährmann
authors.forename: R A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Fuhrmann
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001843:Bone Cements; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D020859:Hallux Rigidus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007595:Joint Prosthesis; D008297:Male; D008683:Metatarsophalangeal Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011475:Prosthesis Failure; D011859:Radiography
chemical_list: D001843:Bone Cements