Synthetic cartilage implant insertion for first metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis (hallux rigidus)
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2 The condition, current treatments and procedure
The condition
2.1 Osteoarthritis is a common condition in which the surface of the joint becomes worn and the adjacent bone thickens and forms osteophytes. It can affect the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe, which may become painful and stiff (hallux rigidus).
Current treatments
2.2 Conservative treatments include exercise, physiotherapy, orthotics, analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory tablets and cream, and steroid injections into the joint. Severe first metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis that does not respond to conservative measures may need surgery. If an osteophyte on the surface of the joint is the only problem, it can be trimmed (cheilectomy). The main surgical options for treating the whole joint are fusion (arthrodesis), osteotomy or joint replacement. Rarely, excision arthroplasty is offered.
The procedure
2.3 Synthetic cartilage implant insertion for hallux rigidus is usually done under general or regional anaesthesia. A moulded cylindrical implant made of polyvinyl alcohol (a soft plastic-like substance) and saline is used with specifically designed single-use instruments. A small incision is made over the top of the big toe joint and a drill is used to remove enough bone to make an appropriately-sized hole for the implant. The implant is placed into the hole in the bone and left slightly raised, providing a smooth and slippery surface in the area of the cartilage defect. Once the implant is in place, the incision is closed with sutures. Weight bearing can typically resume immediately after the procedure. The aim is to reduce pain and improve the toe's range of motion.
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