Non-union incidence of different joint preparation types, joint fixation techniques, and postoperative weightbearing protocols for arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in moderate-to-severe hallux valgus: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose A systematic review to determine the effect of different types of joint preparation, joint fixation, and postoperative weight-bearing protocols on non-union frequency in first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus. Material and methods A systematic literature search (PubMed and EMBASE), adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data on MTPJ preparation, fixation, weight-bearing, and non-union in patients with moderate-to-severe hallux valgus were collected. Quality assessment was performed using the Coleman Methodology Score. Results Sixteen studies (934 feet) were included, generally of medium quality. Overall non-union rate was 7.7%. At 6.3%, convex/concave joint preparation had the lowest non-union rate vs 12.2% for hand instruments and 22.2% for planar cuts. Non-union of 2.8% was found for joint fixation with a plate combined with a lag screw vs 6.5% for plate fixation, 11.1% for crossed screw fixation, and 12.5% for a plate with a cross plate compression screw. A 5.1% non-union frequency was found following postoperative full weight-bearing on a flat shoe vs 9.3% for full weight-bearing on a heel weight-bearing shoe and 0% for a partial weight-bearing regimen. Conclusion Based on medium-quality papers, joint preparation with convex/concave reamers and joint fixation with a plate using a lag screw show the lowest non-union rate. Full postoperative weight-bearing in a stiff-soled postoperative shoe is safe and not associated with non-union vs a more protective load-bearing regimen. Further research should focus on larger sample sizes, longer follow-ups, and stronger study designs.

Increased Risk for Non-Union in First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis following High-Velocity Reaming: A Retrospective Study

“…One method of preventing thermal necrosis is the use of saline irrigation during reaming. However, despite the routine use of saline irrigation in our practice when using power tools, the rates of non-union were still high [10,19].…”

Nonunion After First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis: The Association With Shoe Size

“…However, results from our own research suggest an even higher incidence of 15.2% [ 6 ]. The widespread incidence reported could be explained by a large heterogeneity of pathologies and surgical techniques used [ 2 , 5 - 7 ]. Several other nonunion risk factors have been described, such as high preoperative and postoperative hallux valgus [ 6 , 8 - 10 ], smoking [ 11 , 12 ], and comorbidities like diabetes [ 8 ] and rheumatoid arthritis [ 3 ].…”