Morton's Foot Syndrome: A Case Report and Overview.

Morton's foot syndrome is a hereditary condition characterized by a short first metatarsal compared to the second metatarsal. It often remains asymptomatic but can present with secondary complications. We report a case of a 46-year-old female presenting with Morton's foot syndrome, initially admitted for fatigue and weakness. Physical examination revealed characteristic foot deformities and multiple plantar calluses. This case highlights the anatomical features, pathophysiology, and biomechanical implications of Morton's foot syndrome. We discuss the challenges in differentiating between normal foot structure and Morton's foot, along with potential complications and strategies for effective management. This case report enhances understanding of Morton's foot syndrome, emphasizing the importance of recognizing this condition in clinical practice to prevent potential complications and provide appropriate management.

Biomechanical model of minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery.

Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity characterized by outward tilting and twisting of the big toe, often accompanied by a medial prominence at the base. Minimally invasive surgical techniques are widely utilized for treating metatarsus adductus due to their advantages of smaller incisions, faster recovery, and early weight-bearing. However, due to individual variations and limited sample size, the biomechanical effects of different Kirschner wire fixation methods and the underlying mechanisms of postoperative metatarsalgia remain unclear. In this study, a finite element method was employed to develop a biomechanical model of metatarsus adductus. The influence of various Kirschner wire entry points and angles on foot loading characteristics was investigated. Six different Kirschner wire fixation models, including two entry methods (along the adjacent fracture line and proximal-biased entry at the midshaft of the metatarsal) with different entry angles, were analyzed. Mechanical parameters such as metatarsal stress distribution, plantar pressure distribution, and displacement of the first metatarsal osteotomy plane were assessed. This research aims to enhance understanding of minimally invasive surgery and its fixation methods for metatarsus adductus. By providing scientific support and reliable evidence, it seeks to contribute to the development of minimally invasive surgical techniques and the improvement of clinical practice in metatarsus adductus surgery. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce complications, increase surgical success rates, and enhance patient satisfaction.

Giant Cell Tumor of First Metatarsal: A Rare Case Report with Literature Review.

Introduction: Giant cell tumor (GCT) is a benign locally aggressive tumor with features of frequent recurrence and metastatic potential. GCT of small bones of hand and feet is rare with high recurrence and potential to metastasis. This study aims to provide a case report of GCT of the first metatarsal treated with wide excision, autologous fibular grafting, and fixation with locking plate. Case Report: An 18-year-old male patient presented with progressive swelling over the dorsomedial aspect of foot for 1 year. Upon clinical examination, the swelling was firm with local signs suggestive of a benign bony tumor arising from the base of first metatarsal of the left foot. Radiology reveals an expansile osteolytic lesion arising from the base of 1st metatarsal with coarse septations and features suggestive of a benign bone lesion. A core biopsy was obtained under local anesthesia and histopathology report suggested a GCT. Surgical intervention by en bloc excision and reconstruction by fibular autograft and stabilized with a locking plate was done. The patient was given a below-knee cast for 6 weeks postoperatively. Full weight bearing was started after 6 weeks. At 12 months of follow-up, the graft was well taken up and there were no signs of recurrence both clinically and radiologically. Conclusion: GCT of 1st metatarsal is a rare entity with higher recurrence rate compared to conventional GCT. En bloc excision and autologous fibular graft with plate fixation are preferred treatment options.

Effects of Pathological Characteristics on Functional Scores and Surgical Satisfaction in Patients after Hallux Valgus Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Few studies have explored the relationship between the pathological characteristics of hallux valgus and surgical outcomes. The aim of our study was to report the influence of pathological characteristics such as the tibial sesamoid position (TSP) and first metatarsal pronation on postoperative functional scores and patient satisfaction with hallux valgus surgery. METHODS: From June 2017 to December 2022, a retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent hallux valgus surgery at our hospital. Anteroposterior (AP) x-ray parameters (hallux valgus angle [HVA], intermetatarsal angle [IMA], distal metatarsal articular angle [DMAA], TSP, first metatarsal pronation, and first metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation) (preoperative weight-bearing, immediate postoperative non-weight-bearing, and early postoperative weight-bearing), visual analog scale (VAS) scores, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot scores, SAFE-Q self-administered foot evaluation questionnaire (excluding the Sports Activity subscale), complications, and patient satisfaction were used to describe the outcomes. Correlation analysis and multiple linear regression models were used to identify factors influencing postoperative functional scores and patient satisfaction after hallux valgus surgery. RESULTS: Eighty-one patients (92 feet) whose early radiographic parameters and latest follow-up scores improved significantly (p < 0.01) were included in the present study. The overall complication rate was 27.2%, with recurrence being the most common complication (20.7%). Functional scores and patient satisfaction were associated with age; preoperative, immediate postoperative, and early postoperative HVA; and immediate postoperative IMA (p < 0.05), but not with TSP, first metatarsal pronation, DMAA, callosities, toe deformities, or first metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation (p > 0.05). The R2 values of the multiple linear regression models predicting postoperative functional scores and patient satisfaction ranged from 0.042 to 0.351. CONCLUSION: TSP and first metatarsal pronation were unrelated to postoperative functional scores or patient satisfaction. This finding enhances surgeons' understanding of the functional prognosis of hallux valgus surgery, particularly aiding in explaining the condition and assessing surgical outcomes.

First metatarsal shortening after hallux valgus surgery: Benefits of treatment with distraction osteogenesis.

INTRODUCTION: Iatrogenic shortening and elevation of the first metatarsal (MT1) is a common complication of hallux valgus surgery, inducing metatarsalgia underneath the lesser rays, a reason for patient dissatisfaction. For resolving this problem, different types of revision surgery are described, of which lengthening MT1 by distraction osteogenesis is underreported and therefore undervalued. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present three cases with iatrogenic shortening after hallux valgus surgery treated by distraction osteogenesis of MT1 using a custom-made frame, made of Ilizarov equipment. To evaluate the amount of lengthening, the length of the first and second metatarsal (MT2) and the parabolic distribution of the metatarsal heads were compared before and after distraction. To evaluate correction in the sagittal plane, Meary's angle was measured pre- and post-lengthening. Pain was noted by a visual analogic score during follow-up. RESULTS: In our series of three cases, lengthening of MT1 between 7 mm and 18 mm, resulted in an improved parabolic distribution of the MT heads. The average difference between the second and first MT-head, relative to the SM4 axis (M2-M1) improved from 9.4 mm (± 0.9 mm) to 2.8 mm (± 0.7 mm) resolving corresponding pain in all patients. Meary's angle was normalized in one case. The average duration of treatment was 116 days (± 9 days). Minimal follow up was 11 years. CONCLUSION: Using Ilizarov equipment for distraction osteogenesis of MT1 is a low-cost and effective method. Over time, this technique has proven its utility in pronounced iatrogenic shortening of MT1. The possibility to lengthen more than 1 cm, to correct in multiple planes, as well as early mobilization and weight bearing are additional advantages, but one must be careful to avoid overcorrection. The need for strict follow-up with multiple radiographs and rigorous patient selection is mandatory.

Secondary Surgery Following Lapidus Bunionectomy.

While the Lapidus bunionectomy is a common procedure utilized to address hallux valgus, the incidence of secondary surgery is not well established. Our primary goal was to determine the incidence of revision surgery and hardware removal following the Lapidus bunionectomy in addition to the risk factors associated with each. A retrospective nested case-control study of adult patients who underwent a Lapidus bunionectomy for symptomatic hallux valgus over a 9-year period was performed. The incidence rates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of secondary surgery in the 3 years following the procedure along with the estimated independent associations and odds ratios between baseline demographic, clinical, and radiographic characteristics were calculated. Of the original cohort of 2540 patients, 127 were identified (5.0%; CI: 4.1%, 5.8%) who underwent revision surgery and 165 (6.5%; CI: 5.5%, 7.5%) who underwent hardware removal following Lapidus bunionectomy. Initially, the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, and tibial sesamoid position were risk factors for revision surgery. However, in adjusted analyses for revision surgery, using a screw for third point of fixation emerged as the only independent risk factor (odds ratio [OR] = 3.01; CI: 1.59, 5.69). In adjusted analyses for hardware removal, female sex (OR = 2.33; CI: 1.08, 5.00) and third point of fixation (OR = 2.92; CI: 1.82, 4.69) emerged as independent risk factors. While the overall risks associated with Lapidus bunionectomy are low and the need for revision surgery are low, this study helps to identify specific risk factors for secondary surgery and hardware removal to help in evaluation and discussion with patients.

Sagittal Plane Alignment for First Metatarsal Phalangeal Arthrodesis Correlated with Postoperative Function: What is the Optimal Position?

There have been many reports describing the proposed alignment of a first metatarsal phalangeal arthrodesis to obtain optimum function. Most of these recommendations are based upon historical and anecdotal evidence. Furthermore, there are few reports directly comparing alignment to patient reported function. We studied radiographic sagittal plane alignment in a group of 60 patients (80 feet) who had undergone a first metatarsal phalangeal joint arthrodesis (20 of the 60 had bilateral arthrodesis) to better understand how this component of the arthrodesis position translates to real world function. The patients in this study had completed a functional survey in 2022 at a mean of 28.4 (median 27.8; range 13.2-45.7) months with very high satisfaction for return to activities of daily living and recreational sports. We measured the sagittal plane position of the first metatarsal relative to the proximal phalanx in this cohort with known post operative activity data. We found that a mean (standard of deviation) sagittal plane angle (angle between the anatomic axis of the first metatarsal and the proximal phalanx) of 15.4 (SD 7.4) degrees and a proximal phalanx head to ground height of 12.7 (SD 3.3) mm was present in this group. Comparing the functional and positional results we conclude that this sagittal plane position provides a good recommendation for alignment.

Dynamic Microcirculation Characteristics of Plantar Skin Under Metatarsal Head of Human Foot in Response to Life-Like Pressure Stimulus.

OBJECTIVE: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a severe complication with high mortality. High plantar pressure and poor microcirculation are considered main causes of DFU. The specific aims were to provide a novel technique for real-time measurement of plantar skin blood flow (SBF) under walking-like pressure stimulus and delineate the first plantar metatarsal head dynamic microcirculation characteristics because of life-like loading conditions in healthy individuals. METHODS: Twenty young healthy participants (14 male and 6 female) were recruited. The baseline (i.e., unloaded) SBF of soft tissue under the first metatarsal head were measured using laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). A custom-made machine was utilized to replicate daily walking pressure exertion for 5 min. The exerted plantar force was adjusted from 10 N (127.3 kPa) to 40 N (509.3 kPa) at an increase of 5 N (63.7 kPa). Real-time SBF was acquired using the LDF. After each pressure exertion, postload SBF was measured for comparative purposes. Statistical analysis was performed using the R software. RESULTS: All levels of immediate-load and postload SBF increased significantly compared with baseline values. As the exerted load increased, the postload and immediate-load SBF tended to increase until the exerted load reached 35 N (445.6 kPa). However, in immediate-load data, the increasing trend tended to level off as the exerted pressure increased from 15 N (191.0 kPa) to 25 N (318.3 kPa). For postload and immediate-load SBF, they both peaked at 35 N (445.6 kPa). However, when the exerted force exceeds 35 N (445.6 kPa), both the immediate-load and postload SBF values started to decrease. CONCLUSIONS: Our study offered a novel real-time plantar soft tissue microcirculation measurement technique under dynamic conditions. For the first metatarsal head of healthy people, 20 N (254.6 kPa)-plantar pressure has a fair microcirculation stimulus compared with higher pressure. There might be a pressure threshold at 35 N (445.6 kPa) for the first metatarsal head, and soft tissue microcirculation may decrease when local pressure exceeds it.

Preoperative increased pronation angle of the first metatarsus associated with correction loss after hallux valgus surgery: A semi-weight-bearing computed tomography study.

BACKGROUND: The effect of preoperative first metatarsal pronation on postoperative prognosis of hallux valgus (HV) surgery is under investigation. Utilizing semi-weight-bearing computed tomography, the preoperative pronation angle was assessed to quantify its impact on postoperative prognosis. METHODS: In a retrospective analysis of 31 feet, those with re-increased hallux valgus angle postoperatively were classified as the non-maintained group, and the remainder as the maintained group. Preoperative pronation angles were compared to establish a threshold. Subsequently, feet were re-classified into high or low-pronation categories. The relative risk of non-maintenance in high-pronation category was calculated. RESULTS: The non-maintained group exhibited a significantly higher preoperative pronation angle (p = 0.021), with a 28.4º threshold. The high-pronation category had a relative risk of 2.34 for non-maintenance. CONCLUSIONS: Increased preoperative first metatarsal pronation angle is associated with correction loss after HV surgery. Utilizing sWBCT to measure the pronation angle provides valuable insights into postoperative prognosis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

An unusual case of traumatic injury to the first metatarsal a case report.

A 44-year-old male sustained trauma to his foot leading to a 5-cm defect of the first metatarsal bone and infection of the bone by Staphylococcus aureus. Osteotomy is the most suitable method for treating large metatarsal defects complicated with osteomyelitis, however few reports have been published on this challenging approach. In this case, osteotomy and external fixation for distraction were performed. Finally, the osteomyelitis of the patient was well controlled, the bone length was restored, and the patient could carry weight completely, and the treatment effect was satisfactory.

Radiologic and Clinical Outcomes of the Dovetailed Notch Scarf Osteotomy for Correcting the First Metatarsal Pronation in Moderate to Severe Hallux Valgus Deformity: A Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: The traditional scarf osteotomy (TSO) has limited ability to correct the first metatarsal pronation. A novel modification that we refer to as a "dovetailed notch scarf osteotomy" (DNSO) has been developed to enhance the ability to correct coronal plane pronation. The study aimed to observe and compare TSO to DNSO in the treatment of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity. METHODS: This retrospective study included 78 feet that had a TSO and 105 feet that had a DNSO. Minimum follow-up was 24 months. Weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) and weightbearing anterior-posterior (AP) radiographs were taken preoperatively and at the last follow-up. We measured the intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux valgus angle, distal metatarsal articular surface angle on AP radiographs and first metatarsal coronal pronation angle (α angle), tibial sesamoid coronal grading, and first metatarsal length on WBCT. Clinical assessment was done using visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). The occurrence of postoperative complications was also documented. RESULTS: The DNSO group exhibited a significantly higher correction amount of α angle and IMA (14.3 ± 9.9 and 10.3 ± 4.6 degrees) than the TSO group (8.6 ± 5.9 and 5.4 ± 5.9 degrees) during the final follow-up assessment (P < .05).The DNSO group (10.1 [8.0-12.0] degrees and 4.8 [3.9-5.6] degrees) demonstrated significantly smaller α angle and IMA compared with the TSO group (4.8 [3.9-5.6] degrees and 9.5 [7.5-11.5] degrees) at 24 months postsurgery (P < .05). The postoperative FAAM activities of daily living and SF-36 physical functioning scores were significantly higher in the DNSO group (97.2 ± 3.3 and 95.7 ± 4.4 points) compared with the TSO group (92.3 ± 3.3 and 87.7 ± 8.7 points) (P < .05). Additionally, hallux varus occurred in 1 case in the DNSO group, whereas 4 cases were observed in the TSO group. CONCLUSION: Two osteotomy methods can effectively correct moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity. Compared with the TSO, the DNSO has stronger correction ability. The most crucial aspect lies in its controllability when correcting first metatarsal pronation and addressing IMA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Bilateral first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis: An investigation of functional, surgical and radiological outcomes.

BACKGROUND: First metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis is a commonly utilised procedure. In this study, the authors aim to explore functional outcomes of patients undergoing nonsynchronous bilateral first MTPJ arthrodesis under the care of a single surgeon using a compression screw/locking plate construct. METHODS: This is a prospectively collected, retrospectively analysed case series of fifty five patients who underwent bilateral nonsynchronous first MTPJ arthrodesis. Clinical and radiological outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at a minimum of two years postoperatively. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), the Self-Reported Foot and Ankle Score (SEFAS) and the Sports Questionnaire version 1 (SQ). Postoperative radiographs were used to assess evidence of union and compare both hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles. Removal of hardware, revision surgery and correction of deformities were also recorded. RESULTS: Fifty five patients were included in the study. There was statistically significant improvements in all five facets of the FAOS (p value < 0.05). The mean postoperative SEFAS was 45.1. In total, patients participated in thirteen different sporting activities. This represented 92 patient specific activities preoperatively and 104 postoperatively. The most common activities were walking, cycling and swimming. Overall, 94.5% (N = 52) of the cohort were satisfied with their return to sport while 98.2% (N = 54) would recommend bilateral first MTPJ arthrodesis. Mean reductions in hallux valgus angles and intermetatarsal angles were noted at 18.87 and 4.69 degrees respectively. There was one non-union in the cohort which required revision surgery. One patient required removal of hardware. CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral first MTPJ arthrodesis is a safe and effective surgical option for patients with bilateral first MTPJ pathology. It has a high union rate, low complication rate and significantly improves clinical outcomes and allows patients reliably return to physical activities.

The effect of hallux valgus on the anatomy of the nerves around the first metatarsal bone.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the variations in the location of the nerves that may be at risk in hallux valgus (HV) surgery, and to reveal whether these nerves are affected by the anatomical changes associated with HV. METHOD: In the formalin fixed, 46 lower extremities (19 female, 27 male) (9 normal, 14 mild HV, 21 moderate/severe HV), extensor hallucis longus tendon (EHL), deep plantar artery, medial dorsal cutaneous (MDCN), deep fibular (DFN), common plantar digital (CPDN) and proper plantar digital (PPDN) nerves were examined. The branches of MDCN extending to the medial side of foot were recorded in three segments. The positional topography of nerves according to EHL were analyzed on 360° circle and clock models. RESULTS: Sex-related differences observed in some parameters in direct measurements were not found in the clock model comparisons. In advanced HV angles (> 20°), DFN was closer to EHL in the distal part of the metatarsal bone, while there was no difference in the proximal. The intersection of the medial branch of the MDCN with the EHL was more proximal in HV cases than in normal feet. The location of the nerves in the clock pattern did not change in HV. Of the nerve branches reaching the medial side of the foot, 65.2% were in Part I, 71.7% in Part II, and 4.3% in Part III. CONCLUSION: Sex differences in the distance of the nerves to the EHL disappeared when the size effect of the cross-section of the first metatarsal bone region was eliminated with the clock model. Only in advanced HVA (>20°) (not in mild HV), the DFN being closer to the EHL distally and the intersection of the medial branch of the MDCN with the EHL in HV being more proximal than in normal can be interpreted as specific reflections of HV progress. The variations we revealed in the number of branches reaching the inside of the foot may explain the diversity of neuromas or nerve injuries associated with HV surgery.

Frontal Plane Correction of Hallux Valgus Deformity With a Minimally Invasive Third Generation Tecnique: Short-Term Radiographic Outcomes of a Prospective Case Series.

A number of minimally invasive osteotomies have been described for the repair of hallux abducto valgus (HAV) deformities. However, there are no known published studies that evaluate the effects of minimally invasive surgery techniques on the reduction of frontal plane rotation in patients with HAV. The purpose of this study was to assess correction in the transverse and frontal planes in patients undergoing surgical repair of HAV deformity utilizing a modified percutaneous technique. One hundred and five feet in 105 patients with HAV deformity were treated with a third generation minimally invasive technique using a first metatarsal osteotomy that allowed for frontal plane correction in conjunction with an Akin osteotomy. The minimum follow-up time was 12 months. Preoperative and postoperative anteroposterior weightbearing x-ray images were assessed and four measurements were evaluated: hallux abductus angle (HAA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), tibial sesamoid position and frontal plane rotation of the first metatarsal. There were statistically significant differences for each of the assessments between the preoperative and postoperative radiographs (p < .001). There was a mean reduction in the HAA of 23.5° ± 9.6°, in the IMA, 7.0° ± 3.5°, in the tibial sesamoid position, 2.6 ± 1.3, and an improvement in the assessment of first metatarsal pronation (1.4 ± 0.9). The overall complication rate was 18.1%, with 5.7% of the feet requiring reoperation. The minimally invasive procedure employed by the authors demonstrated suitable outcomes in reducing deformity in both the transverse and frontal planes.

Avulsion Fracture of the Tibialis Anterior Tendon Associated with First Metatarsal Base Fracture: A Case Report and Literature Review.

We present a unique case of a 59-year-old shipyard worker who sustained an avulsion fracture of the tibialis anterior tendon, concurrently with a comminuted fracture at the base of the first metatarsal. This is the first reported case highlighting this concomitant presentation, which underlines the possibility of avulsion fractures accompanying comminuted fractures. Importantly, such avulsion fractures could lead to skin tenting and potential necrosis, necessitating early identification and prompt intervention. The patient underwent successful surgical intervention and displayed good functional restoration 15 months postoperatively.

Is there a tolerance for extension of the first metatarsal after the Lapidus procedure? A clinical, functional, and hindfoot radiographic analysis.

PURPOSE: Based on the tripod concept of load distribution, our study aimed to evaluate whether a slight extension of first metatarsal (M1) that may occur after the Lapidus procedure (LP) could alter the radiographic measurements of the hindfoot and influence clinical and functional outcomes. METHODS: Twenty-five patients (27 feet) were reviewed. Hindfoot radiographic analysis was based on seven measurements. Clinical and functional outcomes were evaluated with self-reported questionnaires. Transfer metatarsalgia was also assessed. Correlation analysis was performed according to variations of the studied variables. RESULTS: The average extension of the M1 was 4.26 degrees (p < 0.001). None of the hindfoot radiographic measurements changed significantly (p = 0.13, p = 0.50, p = 0.19, p = 0.70, p = 0.11, p = 0.36, p = 0.83). Patients improved on most questionnaires (p < 0.001). None presented transfer metatarsalgia. No correlation between M1 extension and clinical and functional outcomes was found. CONCLUSION: Possibly there is a tolerance of M1 extension in which it does not alter the radiographic measurements of the hindfoot, overload the lesser metatarsals, or compromise clinical and functional outcomes.

Immediate Weightbearing Following First Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Arthrodesis With 2 Nickel Titanium Alloy Staples.

The use of staples has been shown to be a reasonable fixation technique to achieve stability of a first MTPJ arthrodesis. Although it has been shown to be a weaker construct than crossed screws or plate and screw combinations, their ease of insertion, low profile, and stability make them a desirable choice for first MTPJ arthrodesis fixation. However, because of this relative weakness, the question remains whether immediate weightbearing when using staples is advisable. The aim of this study is to determine whether the use of 2 nickel-titanium alloy (NITINOL) staples, placed at 90 degrees to one another is a stable enough construct to support full, immediate weightbearing following first MTPJ arthrodesis. We performed a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing first MTPJ arthrodesis by a single surgeon utilizing 2 NITINOL staples placed at 90 degrees to one another. Patients were allowed to be fully weightbearing immediately postoperatively. Forty-seven of 50 (94%) patients achieved complete radiologic consolidation of fusion at 12 weeks, with only 3 requiring revision surgery for nonunion. All of the patients requiring revision surgery for nonunion, had preoperative diagnosis of hallux abducto valgus. We concluded that the use of 2 NITINOL staples placed at 90 degrees to one another is a viable option for first MTPJ arthrodesis, and immediate weightbearing does not increase rate of nonunion or incidence of revision surgery when compared to other fixation techniques.

First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Replacement in a Patient With Monostotic Fibrous Dysplasia and Associated Metatarsophalangeal Arthritis.

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a benign disorder characterized by the replacement of normal bone tissue with fibrous connective tissue, making the bone more susceptible to fractures and increasing the risk of developing degenerative arthritis in multiple joints. We present an unusual case of monostotic FD affecting the first metatarsal, accompanied by metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthritis, which caused difficulties in walking, pain, and reduced quality of life. The patient underwent the first MTP joint replacement using the mobile bearing ROTOglide™ first MTP joint replacement system; the use of this specific implant for this indication appears to be a novel aspect in the existing literature. Following the operation, the patient returned to normal activities, experiencing improvements in pain, walking, and quality of life, thus demonstrating excellent outcomes.

Multiple factors contributing to the metatarsal head eversion in hallux valgus deformity. A prospective study using weight-bearing CT.

PURPOSE: Recently first tarsometatarsal arthrodesis for hallux abducto valgus (HAV) has been advocated as the sole procedure to correct the multiplanar components of the deformity. However, recent debate suggests other factors such as rearfoot pronation and metatarsal torsion affect frontal plane metatarsal eversion and sesamoid positioning. Using weight-bearing CT, 12 feet (12 subjects) with HAV deformities were placed in positions of maximum rearfoot pronation and supination in order to study the effects on metatarsal eversion, sesamoid rotation/displacement, and secondarily the influence of first metatarsal torsion. Sesamoid displacement was quantified by the novel use of the sesamoid displacement angle. PRINCIPLE RESULTS: Although first metatarsal eversion was nearly double in the pronated versus supinated foot, the difference was not statistically significant. Therefore, the bulk of first metatarsal eversion was not secondary to rearfoot eversion. Conversely, a significant positive correlation was found between metatarsal torsion and metatarsal head eversion angles in both supinated and pronated foot positions, with the strongest correlation with rearfoot pronation. Finally, significant increases in sesamoid displacement angles were noted with pronation. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the present study support the contention that multiple factors are associated with frontal plane first metatarsal eversion and sesamoid displacement. Weight-bearing CT scanning can be used to effectively evaluate the frontal plane components in HAV deformities. The sesamoid displacement angle appears to be a useful adjunct to evaluating the hallucal sesamoids. For surgical correction of the deformity, consideration should be given to pre-operative weight-bearing CT evaluation of the foot. This can illuminate the effects of rearfoot/medial column pronation and the potential influence of metatarsal torsion on the frontal plane components of this triplane deformity. In this way the potential for post-operative HAV recurrence can be minimized.

Anatomical study of type classification and surface area of attachment sites for tibialis anterior tendon.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to clarify the attachment types of the tibialis anterior tendon (TAT) in Japanese fixed cadavers and to determine the attachment site area in three dimensions. METHODS: We examined 100 feet from 50 Japanese cadavers. The TAT was classified according to differences in the number of fiber bundles as: Type I, with one fiber bundle; Type II, with two fiber bundles; and Type III, with three fiber bundles. The attachment site area of the TAT was measured using a three-dimensional scanner. RESULTS: Cases were Type II in 95% and Type III in 5%, with no cases of Type I identified. In Type II, mean attachment site areas were 85.2 ± 18.2 mm2 for the medial cuneiform bone (MCB) and 72.4 ± 19.0 mm2 for the first metatarsal bone (1 MB), showing a significantly larger area for MCB than for 1 MB. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest the possibility of ethnic differences in TAT attachment types and suggest that TAT attachments in Japanese individuals are highly likely to be Type II, with rare cases of Type III. Accurate measurement of attachment site areas is possible with appropriate three-dimensional measurements.