Reduction of the intermetatarsal angle after first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis in patients with moderate and severe metatarsus primus adductus.

A radiographic review of first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) arthrodesis in patients who had preoperative intermetatarsal angles greater than 15 degrees is presented. The average reduction of the intermetatarsal angle was measured. Twenty-one patients with 22 fusions, with ages ranging from 43 to 79 years old, underwent first MPJ arthrodesis with screw or pin fixation as determined appropriate by their age and bone quality. Preoperative intermetatarsalangles averaged 17.27 degrees with a range of 15 degrees - 21 degrees. An overall reduction in the intermetatarsal angle of 6.41 degrees was noted. Mechanical factors affecting the reduction of the intermetatarsal angle following first MPJ arthrodesis are discussed.