ABSTRACT
This study was designed to examine the sectional morphology of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Sections were cut in the transverse or sagittal planes from the distal aspect of the first metatarsal and the proximal aspects of the proximal phalanx. These sections were then x-rayed and measurements of the radiographs were taken, in order to attempt to quantify variation in articular surfaces among the various sections. In addition, descriptive statistics of the height and width of the cross section at the mid-diaphysis of the first metatarsal and associated proximal phalanx are presented. Trabecular patterns of the head of the first metatarsal and the base of the proximal phalanx are described based on sectional radiographs. Differences in trabecular patterns between diseased and nondiseased bones are also described. These data are presented as an aid in the accurate sizing of future prosthetic first metatarsophalangeal joint designs.
Subject(s)
Metatarsophalangeal Joint/anatomy & histology , Anthropometry , Cadaver , Female , Humans , Male , Metatarsophalangeal Joint/diagnostic imaging , Prosthesis Design , RadiographyABSTRACT
This study was designed to examine the external morphology of the metatarsophalangeal joint and of the hallux. Approximately 187 first metatarsals and their associated proximal phalanges where measured for ten linear variables from human skeletal specimens housed in the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. The variables represented seven articular characteristics of the head of the first metatarsal, the length of first metatarsal, and the height and width of the base of the first proximal phalanx. Descriptive statistics for each of the variables are presented along with comparisons on gender and race. Strong differences comparing the means of the males and females were found; however, only minor differences were found between the blacks and whites. Correlation coefficients between all variables were found to be statistically significant; however, some relationships were more distinct than others. These data are presented as an aid in the accurate sizing of future prosthetic first metatarsophalangeal joint designs.
