Fusion Rates Following First Metatarsophalangeal Arthrodesis using a Dynamic Nitinol Staple-Plate Construct, Minimum 1-Year Follow-Up

Abstract

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Arthrodesis has long been the procedure of choice for end-stage arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP). Multiple constructs have been described through literature with good fusion rates and patient outcomes. Methods allowing for ease of application and reduction of OR time without sacrificing surgical outcomes and fusion rates are therefore of considerable interest. Methods: In this study, we retrospectively reviewed a cohort of 33 patients undergoing arthrodesis of the first MTP utilizing a dynamic Nitinol staple and plate construct. The primary focus of our study was to evaluate the fusion rates following the aforementioned procedure. All patients within the study received a compression staple-plate construct placed across the first MTP and underwent the same post-operative protocol with radiographs taken at set intervals to evaluate fusion across the joint. Results: Our results demonstrated a 100% fusion rate with 3 delayed unions and no incidences of hardware failure. The time to fusion and fusion rates seen in this study are comparable to those previously reported in literature. Conclusion: We conclude that utilization of this construct is a viable option for arthrodesis of the first MTP, and its ease of application may decrease overall operating time which could prove advantageous over other, more commonly used methods.