Results after cheilectomy in athletes with hallux rigidus

From 1987 to 1993, 20 athletes (22 feet) underwent cheilectomy(10) for Regn auld grade I,(7) grade II16 hallux rigidus, Average age was 31 years (10 me n and 12 women); mean follow-up was at 5.1 years. All patients performed hi gh-level sports (judo, track & field, soccer, and skating). Indications for surgery included failure of nonsurgical treatment with persistent pain dur ing sports activities, shoefitting problems, and recurrent bursitis. The aim of our study was to evaluate the results clinically, radiographical ly, and objectively, using dynamic and static pedodynographic measurements. After a mean follow-up of 5 years, cheilectomy was demonstrated to be a re liable treatment method in athletes with Regnauld grades 1 and 2 hallux rig idus. Functionally, 14 excellent, seven good, and one fair result were note d. Radiological progression was noted in 7 of 13 patients, with a follow-up of >4 years. Postoperative dynamic pedodynographic findings demonstrated moderate but si gnificant changes in peak pressures under the first metatarsal head, the ha llux, and in the center of pressure distribution under the forefoot.