ARTHRODESIS OF THE 1ST METATARSOPHALANGEAL JOINT WITH VITALLIUM PLATEFIXATION

Forty-seven patients (58 feet) underwent first metatarsophalangeal joi nt fusion with a small Vitallium plate (Howmedica, Inc., Rutherford, N J). Congruous joint surfaces were prepared with either cone-shaped or cup-shaped reamers. At an average follow-up of 19.2 months, 98% (57 fe et) were successfully fused. Ninety-three percent (54 feet) noted good or excellent results. Plate removal was necessary in only 7% (4 feet) of cases. Complications included nonunion with plate breakage in 2% ( 1 foot) and delayed union in 2% (1 foot) of cases. This technique was useful and predictable in achieving successful fusion of the first met atarsophalangeal joint.