Radiographic Measurements of the Affected and Unaffected Feet in Patients with Unilateral Hallux Limitus

2016 ◽  
Vol 106 (3) ◽  
pp. 172-181
Author(s):  
Andrew F. Knox ◽  
Alan R. Bryant
Keyword(s):  
Metatarsal Head ◽  
Radiographic Evaluation ◽  
Head Shape ◽  
Intrinsic Factors ◽  
Hallux Limitus ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Radiographic Measurements ◽  
Angle Data ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
First Ray

Background: Controversy exists regarding the structural and functional causes of hallux limitus, including metatarsus primus elevatus, a long first metatarsal, first-ray hypermobility, the shape of the first metatarsal head, and the presence of hallux interphalangeus. Some articles have reported on the radiographic evaluation of these measurements in feet affected by hallux limitus, but no study has directly compared the affected and unaffected feet in patients with unilateral hallux limitus. This case-control pilot study aimed to establish whether any such differences exist. Methods: Dorsoplantar and lateral weightbearing radiographs of both feet in 30 patients with unilateral hallux limitus were assessed for grade of disease, lateral intermetatarsal angle, metatarsal protrusion distance, plantar gapping at the first metatarsocuneiform joint, metatarsal head shape, and hallux abductus interphalangeus angle. Data analysis was performed using a statistical software program. Results: Mean radiographic measurements for affected and unaffected feet demonstrated that metatarsus primus elevatus, a short first metatarsal, first-ray hypermobility, a flat metatarsal head shape, and hallux interphalangeus were prevalent in both feet. There was no statistically significant difference between feet for any of the radiographic parameters measured (Mann-Whitney U tests, independent-samples t tests, and Pearson χ2 tests: P > .05). Conclusions: No significant differences exist in the presence of the structural risk factors examined between affected and unaffected feet in patients with unilateral hallux limitus. The influence of other intrinsic factors, including footedness and family history, should be investigated further.

Effect of Metatarsal Head Shape on the Development of Hallux Valgus Deformity: 10 Years of Natural Follow-up

2020 ◽  
Vol 110 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ulunay Kanatli ◽  
Onur Unal ◽  
Muhammet Baybars Ataoglu ◽  
Tacettin Ayanoglu ◽  
Mustafa Ozer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hallux Valgus ◽  
Plantar Pressure ◽  
Metatarsal Head ◽  
Valgus Deformity ◽  
Radiographic Evaluation ◽  
Hallux Valgus Angle ◽  
Head Shape ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Hallux Valgus Deformity ◽  
Valgus Angle

Background We investigated the role of first metatarsal head shape in the etiology of hallux valgus. By pedobarographic analysis, we evaluated whether first metatarsal head shape causes an alteration in plantar pressure values that would result in metatarsalgia. Methods Referrals to our clinic for metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, and calcaneal spur were scanned retrospectively. Patients with severe hallux valgus, pes planus, gastrocnemius stiffness, generalized joint laxity, neuromuscular disease, or a history of lower-extremity orthopedic surgery were excluded. Sixty-two patients with plantar pressure assessment and radiographic evaluation were included. These patients were invited for reassessment after 10 years. Feet were divided into three groups by metatarsal head shape: round, square, and chevron. On anteroposterior radiographs, the hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles, relative first metatarsal length, lateral sesamoid subluxation, and presence of bipartite sesamoid were noted. Plantar pressure was assessed with pedobarography. Results Feet with round-shaped first metatarsal heads had a statistically significantly greater progression in hallux valgus angle than the other shapes. Plantar pressures under the first, second and third, and fourth and fifth metatarsals increased with time. This can explain the mechanism of transfer metatarsalgia and painful callosities under the first metatarsal in hallux valgus. There was no correlation between hallux valgus angle, relative metatarsal length, and lateral sesamoid subluxation. Conclusions We found a strong relation between round-shaped first metatarsal head and hallux valgus angle progression. No patients had a risk factor responsible for hallux valgus. In other words, this study gives approximately 10-year natural history results in nearly normal feet.

Length of the Sesamoids and Their Distance From the Metatarsophalangeal Joint Space in Feet With Incipient Hallux Limitus

2008 ◽  
Vol 98 (2) ◽  
pp. 123-129 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pedro V. Munuera ◽  
Gabriel Domínguez ◽  
Guillermo Lafuente
Keyword(s):  
Metatarsophalangeal Joint ◽  
Inverse Correlation ◽  
Metatarsal Head ◽  
Joint Space ◽  
Hallux Limitus ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Distal Edge ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Moderate Inverse Correlation

Background: We designed this study to verify whether the sesamoids of the first metatarsal head are longer than normal in feet with incipient hallux limitus, and whether feet with incipient hallux limitus are in a more proximal than normal sesamoid position. Methods: In a sample of 183 dorsoplantar radiographs under weightbearing conditions (115 of normal feet and 68 of feet with slightly stiff hallux), measurements were made of the length of both the medial and the lateral sesamoids and of the distance between these bones to the distal edge of the first metatarsal head. These variables were compared between the normal and the hallux limitus feet. The relationship between these variables and the hallux dorsiflexion was also studied. Results: We found significant differences between the two types of foot in the medial and lateral sesamoid lengths, but no significant difference in the distance between the sesamoids to the distal edge of the first metatarsal. A poor-to-moderate inverse correlation was found between hallux dorsiflexion and medial sesamoid length and between hallux dorsiflexion and lateral sesamoid length. Conclusions: The length of the sesamoid bones of the first metatarsal head could be implicated in the development of the hallux limitus deformity. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 98(2): 123–129, 2008)

Radiographic Impact of Lapidus, Proximal Lateral Closing Wedge Osteotomy, and Suture Button Procedures on First Ray Length and Dorsiflexion for Hallux Valgus

2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (8) ◽  
pp. 964-971 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ian M. Foran ◽  
Nasima Mehraban ◽  
Stephen K. Jacobsen ◽  
Daniel D. Bohl ◽  
Johnny Lin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hallux Valgus ◽  
Wedge Osteotomy ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Closing Wedge Osteotomy ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Suture Button ◽  
Closing Wedge ◽  
Radiographic Measurements ◽  
Valgus Angle ◽  
First Ray

Background: Shortening and dorsiflexion of the first metatarsal are known potential side effects of metatarsal osteotomies for hallux valgus (HV) with the potential to cause transfer metatarsalgia. We compared the effect of the first tarsometatarsal joint arthrodesis (Lapidus procedure), proximal lateral closing wedge osteotomy (PLCWO), and intermetatarsal suture button fixation procedures on the length and dorsiflexion of the first ray. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 105 feet in 99 patients with 30 weeks of follow-up. The average age was 54 years. Seventy-four feet had a Lapidus procedure, 12 had a PLCWO, and 19 had intermetatarsal suture button fixation. Digital radiographic measurements were made for the pre- and postoperative hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA), absolute and relative shortening of the first ray, and dorsiflexion. Results: Preoperative HVA and IMA did not differ between treatment groups ( P > .05 for each). Similar corrections of HVA (30.5-13.5 degrees) were achieved between all groups ( P > .05). The IMA was improved more in the Lapidus group (14.3-6.5 degrees) compared with the suture button fixation group (14.2-8.1 degrees) ( P = .045). There were significant differences in the change in absolute first cuneiform–metatarsal length (FCML) between the Lapidus (–1.6 mm), PLCWO (–2.3 mm), and intermetatarsal suture button fixation (+1.9 mm) procedure ( P = .004). There were also significant differences in relative first metatarsal shortening between the Lapidus (0.1 mm relative shortening), PLCWO (1.1 mm relative shortening), and intermetatarsal suture button fixation (1.3 mm lengthening) procedure ( P < .001). The average dorsiflexion differed between the Lapidus (1.8 degrees) and suture button fixation (0.4 degrees) groups ( P = .004). Conclusion: Intermetatarsal suture button fixation relatively lengthened the first ray, the Lapidus procedure maintained length, and the PLCWO relatively and absolutely shortened it. Dorsiflexion may be higher with the Lapidus and osteotomy procedures. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective comparative series.

scholarly journals The Positive Association Between Metatarsal Length and Meary’s Angle and Hammertoe Deformity

2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011420S0030
Author(s):  
Jesse King ◽  
Chris M. Stauch ◽  
Ryan M. Ridenour ◽  
Umur Aydogan
Keyword(s):  
Average Length ◽  
Articular Surface ◽  
Positive Association ◽  
Lower Extremity Injury ◽  
Control Group ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Diagnosis Codes ◽  
Radiographic Measurements ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Icd 10

Category: Lesser Toes; Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Hammertoe deformities are the most common pathology of the forefoot, accounting for up to 48% of all forefoot operations. There is currently limited evidence documenting differences in foot radiographs and radiographic measurements that may represent a predisposition to developing hammertoe deformity. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether patients with hammertoe deformity demonstrate increased radiographic measurements of first, second, or third metatarsal (MT) lengths as well as Meary’s angle compared to a healthy control group. Methods: Following IRB approval, an institutional radiology database was queried from January 2009-2018 for patients with ICD- 9 and ICD-10 diagnosis codes for hammertoe deformity of the 2nd or 3rd phalange. Control cases were selected using diagnosis codes for acute plantar fascial pain in the same timeframe with medical record review to exclude patients with prior lower extremity injury, surgery or pathology. 234 hammertoe and 110 control patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Automated 1:1 case-control matching was performed to control for age, sex and laterality. Following matching, the sample size consisted of 80 patients in each cohort. Proximal to distal end-to-end articular surface radiographic lengths were documented for metatarsals and phalanges of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd rays on anteroposterior radiographs. Lateral talar-first metatarsal (Meary’s) angle was measured using weightbearing sagittal radiographs by calculating the angle formed by lines that bisect the talar neck and anatomic neck of the first metatarsal. Results: A total of 160 patients (80 cases and 80 controls) were included in the study. Mean age was 47.7 years among hammertoe cases and 47.5 years among controls (p=0.92). 54 of 80 cases in each group were female. There was a statistically significant increase in the average Meary’s angle among hammertoe patients (5.23 +- 8.60°) compared to controls (2.15 +- 5.96°) (p<0.01). The average length for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd metatarsals were 65.6, 80.0, and 76.7 mm, respectively for the hammertoe patients and 62.8 mm, 76.0 mm, and 73.5 mm among control cases, respectively. For all three metatarsals, this difference was statistically significant (p<0.01; Table 1). There was no statistically significant difference between lengths of the proximal or distal phalanges. Conclusion: Patients with hammertoe deformity were associated with an increased length on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd metatarsals. Also, these patients demonstrated an increased Meary’s angle creating pes planus deformity. These results illustrate the importance of both medial column instability and long metatarsal length in the development of hammertoe deformity. [Table: see text]

scholarly journals Open vs Arthroscopic First Metatarsophalangeal (MTP) Joint Fusion

2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011419S0042
Author(s):  
Gean C. Viner ◽  
Eildar Abyar ◽  
Leonardo Moraes ◽  
Haley McKissack ◽  
Martim Pinto ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Surface Area ◽  
Proximal Phalanx ◽  
Total Surface Area ◽  
Open Technique ◽  
Average Percentage ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Joint Fusion ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
First Ray ◽  
Forefoot Disorders

Category: Arthroscopy, Basic Sciences/Biologics, Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint fusion has been proven to be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hallux rigidus/valgus, and failed first MTP arthroplasties. Multiple surgical techniques have been described in the literature with regards to bone preparation and different fixation with varying degrees of success. Studies have demonstrated that one of the complications of MTP fusion is first ray shortening, which can lead to symptomatic forefoot disorders such as transfer metatarsalgia of the lesser toes. Patients can develop altered gait mechanics that manifest as decreased ankle plantarflexion at toe-off and decreased step gait. The purpose of this study was to compare the amount of first ray shortening that occurs during MTP fusions with open versus arthroscopic technique. Methods: Ten specimens were divided into two groups. Group one was arthroscopic and group two was open technique. For arthroscopy, the long extensor (EHL) tendon and first MTP joint were identified. Dorsomedial and dorsolateral ports were created at the level of the MTP joint. A small curette was used to prepare the joint. For open technique, an incision was made on the dorsum of the first MTP joint and carried down to the subcutaneous tissue. The EHL tendon was dissected and a capsulotomy was performed. The head of the first metatarsal and the base of the proximal phalanx were exposed. Dome-shaped reamers were used to prepare the joint. A lag screw was used for fixation. AP and lateral radiographs were obtained. The length of the first ray was measured from the base of the first metatarsal to the distal end of the proximal phalanx. Pre and post fixation lengths were compared. Results: A comparison of pre and post fixation first ray length demonstrated that there was an average decrease of 2.2 mm in the arthroscopic group and 2.1 mm in the open technique group. Even though both techniques shortened the average length of the first ray, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p = 0.934). Comparison of the average percentage of surface area prepared of the head of the first metatarsal showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.035) between both techniques. In contrast, comparison of the average percentage of surface area prepared of the base of the proximal phalanx and total surface area prepared did not show a statistically significant difference (p = 0.159 and p = 0.051) between the groups. Conclusion: First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint fusion has been proven to be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions that affect the first ray. First ray shortening can lead to symptomatic forefoot disorders and altered gait patterns. The results of our study indicate that there is no statistically significant difference in first ray length after MTP fusion performed by either arthroscopic or open technique. Our study also showed that even though the average percentage of surface area prepared of the head of the first metatarsal was statistically different between both groups the average percentage of total surface area prepared was not.

First Metatarsal Head and Medial Eminence Widths with and Without Hallux Valgus

2016 ◽  
Vol 106 (5) ◽  
pp. 323-327 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robin C. Lenz ◽  
Darshan Nagesh ◽  
Hannah K. Park ◽  
John Grady
Keyword(s):  
Hallux Valgus ◽  
Frontal Plane ◽  
Metatarsal Head ◽  
Head Width ◽  
Plane Rotation ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Medial Eminence ◽  
And Control

Background: Resection of the medial eminence in hallux valgus surgery is common. True hypertrophy of the medial eminence in hallux valgus is debated. No studies have compared metatarsal head width in patients with hallux valgus and control patients. Methods: We reviewed 43 radiographs with hallux valgus and 27 without hallux valgus. We measured medial eminence width, first metatarsal head width, and first metatarsal shaft width in patients with and without radiographic hallux valgus. Results: Medial eminence width was 1.12 mm larger in patients with hallux valgus (P &lt; .0001). Metatarsal head width was 2.81 mm larger in patients with hallux valgus (P &lt; .001). Metatarsal shaft width showed no significant difference (P = .63). Conclusions: Metatarsal head width and medial eminence width are significantly larger on anteroposterior weightbearing radiographs in patients with hallux valgus. However, frontal plane rotation of the first metatarsal likely accounts for this difference.

Metatarsus adductus and selected radiographic measurements of the first ray in normal feet

1992 ◽  
Vol 82 (12) ◽  
pp. 616-622 ◽  
Author(s):  
TA Griffiths ◽  
SJ Palladino
Keyword(s):  
Normal Values ◽  
Valgus Deformity ◽  
The Other ◽  
Radiographic Evaluation ◽  
Intermetatarsal Angle ◽  
Radiographic Measurements ◽  
First Ray ◽  
Metatarsus Adductus ◽  
Document Relationships

Radiographic evaluation of hallux abducto valgus frequently involves the measurement of the metatarsus adductus angle, first-second intermetatarsal angle, hallux abductus angle, and proximal articular set angle. While the concept that there is a relationship between untreated metatarsus adductus and hallux abducto valgus deformity is not new, a quantifiable relationship between the metatarsus adductus angle and intermetatarsal angle, hallux abductus angle, and the proximal articular set angle in normal feet is relatively undocumented. The purpose of this study is to document relationships between the metatarsus adductus angle and the other three measurements, and to establish normal values for the intermetatarsal angle, hallux abductus angle, and proximal articular set angle within metatarsus adductus angle subgroups.

scholarly journals Assessment of New Measurements to Assess First Metatarsal Elevation in Hallux Rigidus Compared to Controls

2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011417S0002
Author(s):  
Mackenzie Jones ◽  
Austin Sanders ◽  
Rachael Da Cunha ◽  
Elizabeth Cody ◽  
Carolyn Sofka ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Proximal Phalanx ◽  
Elevation Angle ◽  
Hallux Rigidus ◽  
Intrarater Reliability ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Radiographic Measurements ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
And Control ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Research Assistants

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: While Metatarsus Primus Elevatus (MPE) has been implicated in the development of hallux rigidus, previous studies have presented conflicting findings regarding the relationship between an elevated first metatarsal and arthritis. This may be due to the variety of definitions for MPE and the radiographic measurement techniques that are used to assess it. The aim of this study was to examine the reliability of new radiographic measurements that take into account the elevation of the first metatarsal in relation to the proximal phalanx, rather than in relation to the second metatarsal as previously described, to assess for MPE. In addition, we aimed to determine whether the elevation of the first metatarsal was significantly different in hallux rigidus patients than in a control population. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted from prospectively collected registry data at the investigators’ institution to identify patients with hallux rigidus (n=65). A size matched control cohort of patients without evidence for first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthritis were identified (n=65). Patients with a previous history of foot surgery, rheumatoid arthritis, or hallux valgus were excluded. Five blinded raters of varying levels of training, including two research assistants, a senior orthopedic resident, a foot & ankle fellow, and an attending radiologist, evaluated seven radiographic measurements for their reliability in assessing for MPE in hallux rigidus and control groups. Four of the seven measurements were newly designed taking into account the relationship of the first MTP joint. Inter- and intrarater reliability were calculated using Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) and categorized by Landis and Koch reliability thresholds. The measurements between the hallux rigidus and control populations were compared using an independent t-test. Results: Six of the seven radiographic measurements were found to have substantial to almost perfect interrater reliability (ICC=0.800 to 0.953) between all levels of training, except for the Proximal Phalanx-First Metatarsal Angle which showed moderate reliability (ICC=0.527) (Table). Substantial to almost perfect intrarater reliability (ICC=0.710-0.980) was demonstrated by the research assistants. Six of the seven measurements taken by the attending radiologist demonstrated significant differences in first metatarsal elevation between the hallux rigidus and control populations with the hallux rigidus group showing increased elevation (p=0.000-0.020). Only the First Metatarsal Elevation Angle failed to show a significant difference between the populations (p=0.368). However, the First Metatarsal Elevation Angle measurements of the research assistant and the senior orthopedic resident did show a significant difference between the two populations (p<0.050). Conclusion: This study confirmed the reliability of seven radiographic measurements used to assess for MPE, including three previously established and four newly described measurements. Observers across all levels of training were able to demonstrate reliable measurements. In addition, the measurements were used to show that hallux rigidus patients are more likely to have an elevated first metatarsal compared to patients without radiographic evidence for first MTP arthritis. These measurements could be used in future work to examine how the presence of MPE relates to the etiology and progression of hallux rigidus, and how it affects the results of operative treatment.

Functional Hallux Limitus

2009 ◽  
Vol 99 (3) ◽  
pp. 236-243 ◽  
Author(s):  
Beverley Durrant ◽  
Nachiappan Chockalingam
Keyword(s):  
Sagittal Plane ◽  
Proximal Phalanx ◽  
Metatarsal Head ◽  
The Body ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Joint Motion ◽  
Detailed Review ◽  
Hallux Limitus ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Gait Characteristics

Functional hallux limitus is defined as a functional inability of the proximal phalanx of the hallux to extend on the first metatarsal head during gait. The theory concerning this anomaly and the altered gait characteristics that may result appears to have influenced the understanding of sagittal plane podiatric biomechanics. Although there is an increase in the body of evidence to support the proposed gait alterations, a detailed review suggests the need for further work. The aim of this article is to review the functional hallux limitus literature and its reported effects on gait. Furthermore, we explore some of the key and inherent problems with obtaining accurate data for joint motion measurement in the foot. With evidence-based practice now at the forefront of both clinical and academic practice, it is imperative to review the literature that underpins a particular commonly held or historical belief, in order to substantiate and validate subsequent diagnoses and treatments provided in light of this information. This is also true to advance the understanding of a particular anomaly or pathology and to inform so as to facilitate the provision of better care to patients. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 99(3): 236–243, 2009)

Clinical, Quantitative Assessment of First Tarsometatarsal Mobility in the Sagittal Plane and Its Relation to Hallux Valgus Deformity

1994 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 9-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kaj Klaue ◽  
Sigvard T. Hansen ◽  
Alain C. Masquelet
Keyword(s):  
Hallux Valgus ◽  
Sagittal Plane ◽  
Metatarsophalangeal Joint ◽  
Metatarsal Head ◽  
Valgus Deformity ◽  
Main Concern ◽  
First Metatarsophalangeal Joint ◽  
First Metatarsal ◽  
Hallux Valgus Deformity ◽  
First Ray

Today, bunion surgery is still controversial. Considering that a bunion deformity in fact may be a result of multiple causes, the rationale of the currently applied techniques of surgical treatment has not been conclusively demonstrated. In view of the known hypermobility syndrome of the first ray that results in insufficient weightbearing beneath the first metatarsal head, the relationship between this syndrome and hallux valgus deformity has been investigated. The results suggest a direct relationship between painful hallux valgus deformity and hypermobility in extension of the first tarsometatarsal joint. A pathological mechanism of symptomatic hallux valgus is proposed that relates this pathology with primary weightbearing disturbances in the forefoot where angulation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is one of the consequences. The alignment of the metatarsal heads within the sagittal plane seems to be a main concern in many hallux valgus deformities. As a consequence, treatment includes reestablishing stable sagittal alignment in addition to the horizontal reposition of the metatarsal over the sesamoid complex. As an example, first tarsometatarsal reorientation arthrodesis regulates the elasticity of the multiarticular first ray within the sagittal plane and may be the treatment of choice in many hallux valgus deformities.

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