CAPSULAR INTERPOSITION ARTHROPLASTY FOR SEVERE HALLUX-RIGIDUS

Thirty patients (37 feet) with severe hallux rigidus underwent resecti on arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with our modifi cation (reattachment of the extensor hood and extensor brevis to the f lexor hallucis brevis as a capsular interposition arthroplasty, with m inimal bone resection). Pain and function were significantly improved. Transfer metatarsalgia was not seen. Air patients had at least 4/5 pl antarflexion strength and averaged 50 degrees of dorsiflexion. In pati ents with severe hallux rigidus and nearly equal length of first and s econd metatarsals, capsular interpostion arthroplasty offers a surgica l option that relieves pain without sacrificing motion or strength.