RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical results of the first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis for treating the hallux valgus deformity of the rheumatoid arthritis, using the fixation method with 2 crossed screws. METHODS: 19 cases of the rheumatoid hallux valgus deformity were tried to treat with the first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis, using 2 crossed screws. The follow-up period was averaged in 16 months. The subjective and objective findings were evaluated. Radiologically measurements for the hallux valgus angle, 1, 2 intermetatarsal angle and dorsiflexion angle were measured. RESULTS: Cases, of which the first metatarsophalangeal joint successfully fixated with 2 crossed screws, were 14 (73.7%). 5 failed fixations with 2 crossed screws due to breakage of the cortical bone were immediately refixed with fixation methods (the dorsal plating for three cases, additional K-wire fixation for one, and threaded Steinmann pins fixation for one case). After the arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, the subjective signs in pain, function and alignment were improved as all above fair grade. The radiological fusion was observed at average 8 weeks after the operation in all cases. The hallux valgus angle and 1, 2 intermetatarsal angle were reduced from 45.6+/-7.5degrees and 16.2+/-5.2degrees to 14.2+/-2.0degrees and 10.9+/-2.5degrees respectively. The dorsiflexion angle was measured in 20.5+/-2.2degrees after the fusion. CONCLUSION: To correct the rheumatoid hallux valgus deformity, the arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with 2 crossed screws is a method for the satisfactory results, once the fixation is achieved. However, other fixation procedures should be prepared in case of the failed fixation, which could be happened intraoperatively.