Influence of the biomechanical evaluation of rupture using two shapes of same intramedullary implant after proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis to correct the claw/hammer pathology: A finite element study.

We used finite element analysis to study the mechanical stress distribution of a new intramedullary implant used for proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthrodesis (PIPJA) to surgically correct the claw-hammer toe deformity that affects 20% of the population. After geometric reconstruction of the foot skeleton from claw toe images of a 36-year-old male patient, two implants were positioned, in the virtual model, one neutral implant (NI) and another one 10° angled (10°AI) within the PIPJ of the second through fourth HT during the toe-off phase of gait and results were compared to those derived for the non-surgical foot (NSF). A PIPJA was performed on the second toe using a NI reduced tensile stress at the proximal phalanx (PP) (45.83 MPa) compared to the NSF (59.44 MPa; p < 0.001). When using the 10°AI, the tensile stress was much higher at PP and middle phalanges (MP) of the same toe, measuring 147.58 and 160.58 MPa, respectively, versus 59.44 and 74.95 MPa at corresponding joints in the NSF (all p < 0.001). Similar results were found for compressive stresses. The NI reduced compressive stress at the second PP (-65.12 MPa) compared to the NSF (-113.23 MPa) and the 10°AI (-142 MPa) (all p < 0.001). The von Mises stresses within the implant were also significantly lower when using NI versus 10°AI (p < 0.001). Therefore, we do not recommend performing a PIPJA using the 10°AI due to the increase in stress concentration primarily at the second PP and MP, which could promote implant breakage.

Fiber-reinforced fixation implant for proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis shows advanced implant bio-integration at 2-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: A bio-integrative fiber-reinforced implant (OSSIOfiber® Hammertoe Fixation Implant, OSSIO Ltd., Caesarea, Israel) for proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) correction-arthrodesis showed partial bio-integration at 1-year follow-up (1FU) in a previous study. The study was prolonged to assess the bio-integration at 2-year-follow-up (2FU). METHODS: Twenty-four patients with proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) correction-arthrodesis using the fiber-reinforced implant and analysed at 1FU, completed 2FU. Follow-up included clinical examination, patient reported outcomes, radiographs, MRI and bio-integration scoring. Results were compared between the 1FU and 2FU (paired t-test). RESULTS: Radiographs confirmed fusion in 96 % (n = 23) at 2FU (1FU, 92 % (n = 22)). Implant was no longer visible in 21 % (n = 5), partially visible in 33 % (n = 8), and fully visible in 46 % (n = 11)(1FU, fully visible 100 % (n = 24)). The border between implant and surrounding bone was scored not visible in 88 % (n = 21) and partially visible in 12 % (n = 3) (1FU, border partially visible 100 % (n = 24)). There were no cyst formation or fluid accumulation findings 1FU/2FU. Mild bone edema was detected in 4 % (n = 1) (1FU, 29 % (n = 7)). None of the edema findings were considered as adverse implant related. The mean bio-integration score was 9.71 ± 0.69 at 2FU (1FU, 7.71 ± 0.46). The parameters of border between implant and bone and bone edema further improved at the 2FU compared to the 1FU, total bio-integration score was also higher at 2FU than 1FU (each p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates 96 % PIPJ fusion rate and increased bio-integration from 1FU to 2FU, reaching advanced bio-integration of the fiber-reinforced implant at 2FU.

Fiber-reinforced fixation implant for proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis shows implant bio-integration at 1-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: A new bio-integrative fiber-reinforced implant (OSSIOfiber® Hammertoe Fixation Implant, OSSIO Ltd., Caesarea, Israel) was developed for proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) correction-arthrodesis. The main purpose of this clinical study was to assess implant bio-integration at 1-year follow-up. METHODS: Twenty-four patients, previously treated for a Hammertoe deformity using the bio-integrative, fiber-reinforced implant, were enrolled in this follow-up study. One-year follow-up included clinical examination, patient reported outcomes, radiographs, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and bio-integration scoring. RESULTS: Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) radiographic fusion rate was 92% (n = 22). MRI was analyzed for 24 (100%) patients. In 100% of patients (n = 24), the border between implant and surrounding tissue was scored as partially visible. There were no cyst formation or fluid accumulation findings. Mild bone edema was detected in 29% (n = 7) and is attributed to the chronic distribution of forces due to chronic abnormal gait and pasture. None of the edema findings were considered as adverse implant-related finding. The mean bio-integration score was 7.71 ± 0.46. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates safe bio-integration of the newly developed fiber-reinforced implant at 1-year follow-up without negative side effects.

Allograft lateral collateral ligament reconstruction for bilateral chronic varus instability of the hallux interphalangeal joint: A case report and literature review.

The hallux interphalangeal joint (HIPJ) is anatomically stable in the transverse plane. Therefore, chronic varus instability of this joint is an extremely rare condition. For symptomatic patients, surgical reconstruction of the lateral collateral ligament is a mobility-sparing option. To date, only lateral collateral ligament reconstruction using autograft tendon has been reported. We present a case of bilateral chronic varus instability of HIPJ in a Taekwondo player, who underwent lateral collateral ligament reconstruction using Achilles tendon allograft.

Non-vascularized partial joint transfer for Finger Proximal Interphalangeal joint reconstruction: a series of 9 patients.

INTRODUCTION: Finger proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) reconstruction after the destruction of parts of the joint remains challenging. Surgical techniques include implant arthroplasty, arthrodesis, free vascularized joint transfer, and non-vascularized bone and joint transfer. This study analyzes our experience after non-vascularized transfer in terms of range of motion, postoperative rehabilitation, and patient satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2009 and 2014, ten patients underwent non-vascularized partial joint transfer for PIP joint reconstruction. One of them was lost to follow-up. Included patients had osteochondral partial joint transplants of 25-50% of the toes (n = 4) and the hand (n = 5). Range of motion (ROM), grip-, and pinch-strength were measured at the last follow-up control and compared to the healthy side. Patients were asked to score the pain at rest/ on load on a visual scale (VAS: 0 = no pain; 10 = excruciating pain). Satisfaction self-assessment was evaluated by asking the patients to grade their postoperative result as excellent, very good, good or poor. RESULTS: Mean follow-up period was 4.0 years (range 1.2-7.9 years). Mean PIP joint flexion was 93 ± 26° at the last follow-up control. Mean grip- and pinch-strength of the operated side at the last control were, respectively, 43 ± 18 kg and 8 ± 5 kg, close to the healthy side values (45 ± 15 kg and 9 ± 4 kg). Mean pain at rest/on load measured on a visual scale was, respectively, 0.3 ± 1 and 1.8 ± 2. Eight patients (89%) rated their operation as excellent, and one as poor. CONCLUSION: In this study, non-vascularized partial joint transfer provides a mobile and stable PIP joint 4 years after reconstruction. The surgical technique presented herein is complex depending on additional injuries but results in great patient satisfaction.

Percutaneous Reduction of a Dislocation of the Interphalangeal Joint of the Great Toe: A Case Report.

Dorsal dislocation of the interphalangeal joint of the great toe is quite rare. Closed reduction is often attempted in the emergency setting, but this measure is seldom successful because of invagination of the sesamoid-plantar plate complex into the interphalangeal space. Generally, open reduction is indicated when closed reduction fails. In this report, percutaneous reduction of the incarcerated sesamoid was performed under local and intraarticular anesthesia at our outpatient clinic, leading to successful reduction.

Radiographic and Clinical Comparison of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Between a Static and Dynamic Implant.

Hammertoe deformation is a frequent motive for consultation in forefoot surgery, and proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis is a classic treatment for fixed deformation, which tends to be achieved more and more thanks to specific implants. This work evaluated and compared clinical improvement, radiologic fusion, and complication rates between dynamic (Difuse®) and static (TinyFix®) implants from Biotech Ortho. A total of 95 patients (110 feet and 166 toes; 97 static and 69 dynamic implants) were included. Mean age was 63.6 (±12.6) years in the dynamic group and 62.3 (±14.01) years in the static group. Epidemiologic and intraoperative radiologic data were collected. Pain, toes deformity, complications, and radiologic findings (bone fusion and osteolysis) were recorded at 4 months postoperatively and at the last follow-up. Mean follow-up was 11.5 (range 4 to 28) months, and the position of the implants was more often satisfying in the dynamic group (p = .01). Fusion rates at 4 months were 67% and 80% in the dynamic and static groups, respectively (p = .05). Radiologic osteolysis occurred more frequently in the dynamic group (p = .05 at 4 months), and pain was still present in 3% in the dynamic group at the last follow-up compared with 7% in the static group. Complication rate was 7% in the dynamic group (implant fractures) and 4% in the static group. Revision was considered more often in the dynamic group (p = .01). The static titanium implant seems superior to the dynamic memory shape implant in Nitinol alloy with regard to fusion (p = .04), complications (p = .03), and revision rates (p = .01). The literature review seems to support the good results of static implants compared with the rest of the available arthrodesis implant solutions.

Bone change after surgical treatment of mucous cyst at the interphalangeal joint of the great toe in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis.

Digital mucous cysts are a type of benign cysts of the digits, typically located at the distal interphalangeal joints or in the proximal nail fold, which usually occur on the hands. The diagnosis of digital mucous cysts is relatively easy because of its light-transmitting property, but the treatment is often difficult because of complications including recurrence, infection, diminished range of motion, and nail deformity. We report a case of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) showing good course after surgical treatment of mucous cyst at the interphalangeal joint of the great toe. In a case of RA, combination of synovectomy with surgical treatment of mucous cyst might be effective.

Structural interaction between bone and implants due to arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.

BACKGROUND: Currently, the metatarsophalangeal joint replacement through a restorative arthroplasty, where implants are used, is a viable invasive surgical medical procedure in the treatment of severe cases of osteoarthritis in this joint, better known as hallux rigidus. However, few things are known about the postoperative complications that implants can cause on the joint, like Swanson and Tornier implants.Research in this field can provide a valuable information that would help the specialist surgeon in the decision-making during the selection of the more suitable joint implant in each patient, as well as the redesign of the devices, to make them more efficient, durable and biocompatible with the human body. METHODS: The aim of this work is to perform a structural biomechanical analysis of a restorative arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, and to analyze the interaction between bone and medical grade silicone implants. For that, a simulation of a foot with Swanson and Tornier joint implants were performed to evaluate the stress/strain distribution during a critical stage (toe-off). RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Principal stresses obtained for the first metatarsal with both implants suggest that failure is induced in this bone because, values exceed (up to 136.84% for Swanson model) the tensile strength reported for phalange trabecular bone, which may be related to osteolysis. Stress and strain values obtained in this work suggest that arthroplasty surgery with Swanson implant is more likely to cause postoperative complications versus Tornier implant.

Biomechanical Comparison of Fixation With a Single Screw Versus Two Kirschner Wires in Distal Chevron Osteotomies of the First Metatarsal: A Cadaver Study.

Distal chevron osteotomy is a common procedure for surgical correction of hallux valgus. Osteosynthesis with 1 screw or 2 Kirschner wires has been commonly used. We compared the stability of the 2 techniques in distal chevron osteotomy. Sixteen first metatarsals from fresh-frozen human cadaver feet (9 different cadaveric specimens) were used. A standardized distal chevron osteotomy was performed. One first metatarsal from each pair was assigned to group 1 (3.5-mm cortical screw; n = 8) and one to group 2 (two 1.6-mm Kirschner wires; n = 8). Using a materials testing machine, the head of the first metatarsals was loaded in 2 different configurations (cantilever and physiologic) in succession. In the cantilever configuration, the relative stiffness of the osteosynthesis compared with intact bone was 59% ± 27% in group 1 and 68% ± 18% in group 2 (p = .50). In the physiologic configuration, it was 38% ± 25% in group 1 and 35% ± 7% in group 2 (p = .75). The failure strength in the cantilever configuration was 187 ± 105 N in group 1 and 259 ± 71 N in group 2 (p = .21). No statistically significant differences were found in stability between the 2 techniques. The use of 1 screw or 2 Kirschner wires had no significant differences in their biomechanical loading capacity for osteosynthesis in distal chevron osteotomies for treatment of hallux valgus.

Distal Akin osteotomy for hallux valgus interphalangeus.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess clinical and radiological outcomes in patients who underwent distal Akin osteotomy for hallux valgus interphalangeus (HVI). METHODS: A series of 15 consecutive patients (17 feet) was retrospectively reviewed. All the patients were preoperatively and post-operatively evaluated with a physical and radiographic assessment (HVI angle). Satisfaction has been assessed through a satisfaction survey, the scale used consisted in three possible choice: very satisfied, satisfied, not satisfied. RESULTS: Among 15 patients the 52.9% (9 patients) stated to be "very satisfied", the 41.2% (7 patients) "satisfied" and just a 5.9% (one patient) was "not satisfied". The mean HVI value decreased from 24.9°±7.8° preoperatively to 13.1°±5.8° postoperatively at last follow up (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Based on these findings we can conclude that the distal Akin osteotomy can be considered safe and effective in the surgical correction of symptomatic HVI deformities.

Evaluation of the 1st metatarso-sesamoid joint using standing CT - The Stanmore classification.

BACKGROUND: Little is understood about the role that relative sesamoid displacement and chondral wear have on outcome after hallux valgus (HV) surgery. All existing methods to evaluate relative sesamoid displacement have limitations and furthermore, there have been no radiographic studies evaluating metatarso-sesamoid joint wear. Standing CT scan circumvents many of the existing problems in evaluation of relative sesamoid displacement, and also enables the first radiographic study assessing metatarso-sesamoid joint wear. METHODS: Fifty feet (in 43 patients) with symptomatic HV (Group A) were compared with a control group of 50 feet (50 patients) (Group B). All images were standardised to enable reproducible measurements. The hallux valgus angle, Intermetatarsal angle, sesamoid rotation angle, sesamoid position and metatarso-sesamoid joint space were measured in all patients. RESULTS: The intra and inter-observer reliability correlation showed that the standing CT assessment of sesamoid position (1.000), rotation (0.991) and metatarso-sesamoid joint space (0.960) were highly reproducible. There was a highly significant difference (p<0.0001) in sesamoid position, sesamoid rotation and metatarso-sesamoid joint space between Group A and Group B. CONCLUSIONS: Standing CT has been shown to be a reproducible and accurate method of assessing the relative sesamoid displacement and metatarso-sesamoid joint space narrowing. The results have been used to propose a novel standing CT based classification of hallucal sesamoids, considering the degree of displacement and wear. This classification may ultimately facilitate research to provide new insight into the effect relative sesamoid displacement and chondral wear have on outcomes from hallux valgus surgery.

Association between preoperative pain intensity of MTP joint callosities of the lesser toes and fore-mid-hindfoot deformities in rheumatoid arthritis cases.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether preoperative pain intensity in callosities of the lesser toe metatarsopharangeal (MTP) joint was associated with the grade of fore-mid-hindfoot deformities, because rheumatoid arthritis (RA) foot deformity includes the whole part of foot, and curiously differences between cases in the pain intensity of MTP joint callosities are often observed. METHODS: We evaluated 24 feet that had undergone forefoot surgery [August, 2014 - December, 2015] for painful lesser toe MTP joint deformity (callosities) in RA cases. A preoperative self-administered foot evaluation questionnaire (SAFE-Q) and pressure distribution information for foot function were also investigated. X-rays of the whole lower extremities and foot at weight-bearing were used to check fore-mid-hindfoot deformities. RESULTS: Group M (mild) [n = 9] included patients with the pain visual analog scale (VAS) less than 40 mm, while group S (severe) [n = 15] included patients whose VAS was over 40 mm. Group M showed stronger hindfoot valgus and pronated (abducted) deformity, and group M showed higher pressure on the first MTP joint compared with group S. CONCLUSIONS: These observations reconfirm that hindfoot valgus deformity and/or pronated (abducted) foot deformity affects the forefoot loading distribution, subsequently the pain of callosities in lesser toe MTP joints could be decreased.

Revision with suture-tape augmentation after failed collateral ligament reconstruction for chronic interphalangeal instability of the hallux.

Chronic varus instability or recurrent subluxation following isolated interphalangeal dislocation of the hallux is a rare injury. No consensus has been reached regarding the best joint-salvage procedure for patients with the failed collateral ligament reconstruction using tendon graft. We report a case who achieved satisfactory clinical outcome through a modified surgical procedure (revision collateral ligament reconstruction augmented with suture-tape).

Full-Length Finger Reconstruction for Proximal Amputation With Expanded Wraparound Great Toe Flap and Vascularized Second Toe Joint.

BACKGROUND: Most of the frequently used methods for finger reconstruction have their own limitations. Reconstruction of a full-length finger with normal appearance, in patients with proximal digital amputation, remains a challenge. METHODS: Between January 2002 and November 2013, a total of 86 fingers (60 patients) with proximal phalanx amputation were surgically repaired. A compound flap comprising an expanded wraparound flap from the great toe and a vascularized proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint from the second toe was harvested to reconstruct a full-length finger. The flap was used to reconstruct the nail, skin, and the distal phalanx; the PIP joint was used to reconstruct the PIP joint. To attain normal length of the finger and right PIP joint positioning, an iliac bone graft was inserted into the distal-middle or proximal phalanx. RESULTS: All reconstructed fingers retained their viability and natural appearance and were of near-normal length with a normal PIP joint positioning; 12.8% (9/86) of the procedures required re-exploration owing to compromised circulation. Secondary procedures were required in 71% (61/86) of the cases. With the exception of 1 case, the donor-site complications were mild; the average range of motion at the other PIP joints was 52 degrees (-15 to -5 degrees of extension, 25-90 degrees of flexion). Approximately 80% of the normal functionality and 93% of the normal appearance with respect to aesthetics were restored. CONCLUSIONS: The full-length finger reconstruction procedure allows for construction of natural-appearing full-length fingers with normal PIP joint positioning and a near-normal functional recovery for proximal digital amputation. The operation is technically complex and time consuming and demands a skilled operator for successful outcomes.

Arthroscopic Removal of Large Extensor Process Fragments in 18 Friesian Horses: Long-Term Clinical Outcome and Radiological Follow-Up of the Distal Interphalangeal Joint.

OBJECTIVE: Report long-term clinical and radiological follow-up in horses after removal of large extensor process fragments occupying >25% of the joint surface of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIJ). STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Friesian horses (n=18) that underwent arthroscopic removal of a large extensor process fragment. METHODS: Arthroscopic examination of the DIJ was performed in dorsal recumbency with the affected foot in extension using routine portals. Visualization of the fragment was improved using motorized synovial resectors. A dissection plane between the common digital extensor tendon and the extensor process fragment was created using sharp lever instruments, in some cases aided by motorized burrs and radiofrequency ligament dissection. The fragment was removed piecemeal using Ferris-Smith rongeurs. Medical records, preoperative and postoperative radiographs, and owner surveys were reviewed for case details and outcome. RESULTS: The technique described allowed removal of the large fragment in all 18 horses. Of the 17 horses where long-term clinical follow-up was available, 14 were used as intended and 3 kept some degree of lameness. The angle between the remodeled extensor process and the dorsal surface of the distal phalanx was increased and subchondral bone remodeling at the fragment bed was noted on postoperative lateromedial radiographs. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic removal is a good treatment option for horses with large extensor process fragmentation with a good long-term outcome. Remodeling of the remaining extensor process and the subchondral new bone formation in the fragment bed can occur with functional recovery.

Dual-Component Intramedullary Implant Versus Kirschner Wire for Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fusion: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

We undertook a multicenter, parallel treatment arm, randomized controlled trial to compare the outcomes after surgery for the treatment of lesser digital hammertoe using either a Kirschner wire or a 2-piece intramedullary, stainless steel implant for fixation of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Our primary aim was to compare the incidence of arthrodesis and complications, and our secondary aim was to compare the subjective foot-related outcomes measured using the Bristol Foot Score and the Foot Function Index, stratified by fixation group. We hypothesized that the use of the dual-component implant would result in greater patient satisfaction, a greater incidence of radiographic arthrodesis, and fewer complications after hammertoe repair. The overall mean age of the participants was 58.72 ± 13.48 (range 18 to 84) years, their mean body mass index was 30.14 ± 6.55 (range 20.7 to 46.98) kg/m(2), and no statistically significant differences in the demographic variables were present between the treatment groups at baseline or during the follow-up period. Of the 91 participants, 46 (50.55%) were randomly allocated to the Kirschner wire group and 45 (49.45%) to the intramedullary implant group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the 2 fixation groups in the incidence of complications; however, the 2-piece intramedullary implant group was associated with a greater mean Bristol Foot Score and Foot Function Index score and a greater incidence of fusion.

Unilobed Rotational Flap for Plantar Hallux Interphalangeal Joint Ulceration Complicated by Osteomyelitis.

Diabetes-related neuropathic ulcers located at the plantar aspect of the hallux interphalangeal joint are often chronic or recurrent and frequently become complicated by osteomyelitis. Once infected, treatment will typically involve hallux amputation. Although intended as a definitive procedure, amputation of the first toe is not desirable from a cosmetic or functional standpoint and often leads to transfer ulcers at adjacent locations of the foot. Reconstructive wound surgery, combined with limited bone resection, is possible if the infection is caught early before the local tissue and bone have become necrotic. In addition to neuropathy, biomechanical issues, including ankle equinus, hallux limitus, hallux extensus, and hallux valgus, predispose patients with diabetes mellitus to developing plantar hallux ulcers. We commonly employ a proximal based unilobed plantar rotational flap combined with hallux interphalangeal joint arthroplasty as an alternative to hallux amputation. We present a typical case with long-term follow-up to highlight our flap protocol, including patient selection criteria, flap design, surgical technique, bone resection and biopsy pearls, staging timeline, and a typical postoperative course. Periodic follow-up during the next 72 months for unrelated conditions allowed long-term monitoring with no recurrence of osteomyelitis or subsequent amputation. The foot remained ulcer free 6 years later. The benefits of this surgical approach include complete excision of the ulcer, adequate exposure for bone resection, early bone biopsy before the spread of infection or necrosis of local tissue, flap coverage with viable soft tissue, and partial offloading of mechanical pressure at the plantar interphalangeal joint.

Evaluation of Hallux Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty Compared With Nonoperative Treatment of Recalcitrant Hallux Ulceration.

Patients with chronic diabetes can develop plantar hallux ulcerations secondary to neuropathy, increased pressure, and deformity. The present retrospective study evaluated the efficacy of hallux interphalangeal joint (HIPJ) arthroplasty to address recalcitrant ulceration. Two groups of patients with diabetes were compared: a surgical group of 13 patients and a nonsurgical standard therapy group of 13 patients. The patients in the surgical group underwent HIPJ arthroplasty. All the patients in the standard therapy group received local wound care and offloading. The mean duration of follow-up was 19.5 (range 1.2 to 47.9) months, and the mean age was 55 ± 13.0 years. Statistical significance was found in the surgical group for faster time to healing (3.5 weeks [2.5, 4.25] vs 9 weeks [2, 17.29], p = .033) and lower incidence of ulcer recurrence (8% ± 7.69 vs 54% ± 53.85, p = .031). There were also fewer amputations in the surgical group (0% ± 0 vs 38% ± 38.6, p = .063). To our knowledge, only 1 other published study has evaluated HIPJ arthroplasty as a treatment of recalcitrant hallux ulceration. The present study adds comparison data from a nonoperative standard therapy group and found that HIPJ arthroplasty is an effective curative treatment option to address chronic plantar hallux ulcerations in diabetic patients with neuropathy.

Use of Smart Toe(©) implant for small toe arthrodesis: A smart concept?

BACKGROUND: Arthrodesis of small joints for hammer and claw toe deformities is a common forefoot operative procedure. Our objective was to review patients who underwent small toe arthrodesis with Smart Toe(©) intramedullary monobloc implant. Our aim was to assess patient's surgical outcome and to ascertain implant suitability. METHODS: This procedure was undertaken in 90 patients from February 2011 to December 2012. We present our review of 82 (91.1%) patients who attended the final six 6-month follow up. Mean age was 56.5 years. There were 7 (8.5%) males and 75 (8.5%) males and 75 (91.5%) females. Clinical and radiological evaluation was undertaken. A questionnaire was used to assess general symptoms, clinical outlook, deformity and patient's perceptions and acceptance. Foot and Ankle Outcome Score and Foot and Ankle Disability Index were used to judge outcome. RESULTS: There were 71 (86.6%) proximal and 11 (13.4%) distal interphalangeal joints with 69 (84.1%) second, 7 (8.5%) third, 6 (84.1%) second, 7 (8.5%) third, 6 (7.3%) fourth toes. There was persistent swelling in 7 (8.5%) and tenderness in 1 (1.2%). Appearance of toes was symmetrical in 71 (86.6%) and 11 (13.4%) were asymmetrical but asymptomatic. The mean range of movement of the adjacent joint was 53.9°. Control of toes was good in 72 (87.8%) patients. Mean percentage of improvement was 76.1% with 100% in 17 (20.7%) and over 80% in 47 (57.3%). Seventy (85.3%) would recommend and undergo repeat surgery. There were 2 (2.4%) cases of metal cut out. There was one (1.2%) implant failure. Union was achieved in 79 (96.3%) patients. CONCLUSION: We feel that Smart Toe(©) small toe arthrodesis is a safe and reliable technique with good patient outcome and acceptance.