A new implant for the metatarsophalangeal joint.

Abstract

A double-stemmed metatarsophalangeal joint silicone implant has been designed to act as a flexible weightbearing spacer for a number of conditions that affect the metatarsophalangeal joint. The preliminary results show that surgical treatment is feasible for conditions that were previously only marginally successfully treatable. With the exception of lesser metatarsal osteotomies, the prognosis for metatarsophalangeal joint procedures has always been poor. This implant spacer warrants an expanded evaluation for the treatment of lesser metatarsal maladies. Longer-term results are necessary to evaluate those areas of greatest benefit.