Abstract
BACKGROUND: We describe a new surgical technique for arthrodesis of the first tarso-metatarsal (TMT) joint using an intraosseous fixation device and the early results including patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen consecutive procedures with this method were included. Indication for surgery was hallux valgus. The average age was 42 years (range 26-65). PROMS were collected and the patients were asked to fill out a satisfaction questionnaire. A retrospective review of radiographs and electronic medical notes was conducted. RESULTS: Overall fusion rate was 94%. Complications included a case of failed fusion, a superficial wound infection and a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). At a mean follow-up of 24 months (range 10-38) radiographic results demonstrated significant improvement in the intermetatarsal angle or IMA (11.7 ± 2.8 degrees to 6.9 ± 2.4 degrees, P < 0.001) and hallux valgus angle or HVA (28.1 ± 7.3 degrees to 12.2 ± 4.3 degrees, P < 0.001). The mean visual analog scale (VAS) score improved significantly from a mean of 7.6 (SD 0.85) preoperatively, to a mean of 2.1 (SD 1.83) post-operatively (P < 0.0001). The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) significantly improved from a mean of 35.8 (SD 10.2), to a mean of 9.2 (SD 17) (P < 0.0001). The final result was satisfactory for 88% of the patients. CONCLUSIONS: The early results show intraosseous fixation to be a safe and efficient method for the fusion of the first TMT joint providing good patient satisfaction.