Results of cheilectomy and additional microfracture technique for the treatment of hallux rigidus

Cheilectomy is an established method for the treatment of hallux rigidus. In a prospective study, 41 consecutive patients (46 feet) underwent cheilectomy and microfracturing for hallux rigidus. 28 patients (32 feet) could be included in the study considering inclusion and exclusion criteria and were followed at an average of 23 months. Patients were rated with the AOFAS Metatarsopahangeal-Interphalangeal-Score and by a Visual Analog Score (VAS, not scaled 10 cm, 0=very poor, 10=excellent). Preoperative radiographs and MRI evaluation showed 18 cases of grade 2 and 14 of grade 3. Score results improved significantly (P<0.000) from 47 points (range, 18-75 points) preoperatively to an average of 78 points (range, 35-100 points). Average outcome in the VAS was 7.3 for pain (preop: 2.5), 6.6 for function (preop: 2.6) and 7.2 for satisfaction (preop: 1.8). Clinical examination showed a significant (P<0.000) average improvement in range of motion of 19°. Patients classified grade 3 were found to have poorer results than grade 2. In a short term follow-up, the method has prove to be effective to relieve pain and improve function.