Complications Following Allograft and Xenograft Resurfacing of the First Metatarsal Head: A Case Series.

Ten cases using decellularized allografts and xenografts for the purpose of resurfacing the first metatarsal head are reviewed in this article. Although most of the cases were performed without any postoperative complications, the focus of this series is on 2 of the 3 cases in which destruction of the first metatarsal head was observed postoperatively due to a foreign body reaction and severe degeneration within the metatarsal head. A salvage procedure using a silicone total joint to replace the damaged surface is shown. The role of cystic changes present preoperatively, and its role in subsequent failure is examined.