First metatarsophalangeal joint arthroscopy in patients with hallux valgus.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthroscopy in patients with hallux valgus.


METHODS
The arthroscopic findings of 121 first MTPJ arthroscopies were analyzed together with the radiologic assessment of hallux valgus angle, sesamoid position, and foot type.


RESULTS
In those patients with first MTPJ pain, pain is associated with metatarsophalangeal compartment synovitis and cartilage lesions. Of those with first MTPJ pain, 90% had complete or significant relief of the joint pain after arthroscopic synovectomy.


CONCLUSIONS
Metatarsophalangeal compartment synovitis and cartilage lesions are significantly associated with first MTPJ pain in patients in hallux valgus. Synovitis and cartilage lesions of the metatarso-sesamoid compartment are not associated with first MTPJ pain. Patients with hallux valgus can complain of first MTPJ pain without any bunion pain. First MTPJ arthroscopy is an effective tool to control MTPJ pain when conservative management fails.


METHODS
Level III, retrospective comparative case-control study.
Lui
Tun Hing
TH
Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, North District Hospital, Hong Kong, China. luithderek@yahoo.co.uk
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000379:methods; D002356:Cartilage / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006215:Hallux Valgus / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008683:Metatarsophalangeal Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000628:therapy; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal