Replacement of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with a silicone elastomer ball-shaped spacer

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Biomaterials science

Background:

• Hallux valgus and hallux rigidus are common foot deformities.
• Existing treatments have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a silicone elastomer ball-shaped spacer for treating hallux valgus and hallux rigidus.
• To assess the safety and outcomes of this novel spacer.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study involving 111 operations in 77 patients over 5 years.
• Utilized a silicone elastomer ball-shaped spacer for surgical correction.
• Assessed patient outcomes based on deformity type and severity.

Main Results:

• The spacer yielded the best results in patients with hallux rigidus.
• Good outcomes were observed in hallux valgus cases.
• Severe hallux valgus deformities required additional procedures for optimal correction.
• No instances of silicone synovitis were reported, indicating a favorable safety profile.

Conclusions:

• The silicone elastomer spacer is a viable option for hallux rigidus treatment.
• It offers good results for hallux valgus but may necessitate supplementary procedures for severe cases.
• The spacer demonstrates a good safety profile with no silicone synovitis observed.