Pinning Across the Metatarsophalangeal Joint for Hammertoe Correction: Where are We Aiming and What is the Damage to the Metatarsal Articular Surface?
Publication/Presentation Date
7-1-2014
Abstract
Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation across the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) is commonly used in hammertoe repair surgery. The purpose of the present study was twofold: (1) to determine where the K-wire penetrates the metatarsal articular surface to achieve a rectus digit; and (2) to quantify the percentage of cartilage disruption to better understand the consequences of K-wire transfixation of the MTPJ. Arthrodesis was conducted on the second, third, and fourth proximal interphalangeal joints of 10 below-the-knee cadaver specimens, using a 1.6-mm K-wire. Digital alignment was confirmed with simulated weightbearing intraoperatively and radiographically. The K-wire was removed, and the MTPJ was dissected until the metatarsal head was fully exposed. The penetration point was plotted on a quadrant system with deviation noted from the epicenter. Center was defined as the point equidistant from the medial-to-lateral and superior-to-inferior edges on the distal surface of the metatarsal head, excluding the plantar condyles. Statistically significantly deviations were found in the K-wire placement from the center (35.9% ± 17.5%, p < .001), medial-to-lateral width (22.2% ± 19.2%, p < .001), and dorsal-to-plantar height (15.8% ± 25.0%, p = .002). Relative to the center, the K-wire was superior in 22 (79%), inferior in 6 (21%), medial in 22 (79%), and lateral in 6 (21%) of the cadaveric MTPJs. The mean percentage of disruption of the articular cartilage was 1.8% ± .4% and was similar for the second, third, and fourth MTPJs (p = .13) and for the left and right feet (p = .75). This information could be used to guide surgeons when they transfixate the MTPJ during hammertoe correction and might contribute to preservation of the articular cartilage.
Volume
53
Issue
4
First Page
405
Last Page
410
ISSN
1542-2224
Published In/Presented At
Galli, M. M., Brigido, S. A., & Protzman, N. M. (2014). Pinning across the metatarsophalangeal joint for hammertoe correction: where are we aiming and what is the damage to the metatarsal articular surface?. The Journal Of Foot And Ankle Surgery: Official Publication Of The American College Of Foot And Ankle Surgeons, 53(4), 405-410. doi:10.1053/j.jfas.2013.06.014
Disciplines
Other Medical Specialties | Surgery
PubMedID
23871175
Peer Reviewed for front end display
Peer-Reviewed
Department(s)
Department of Surgery
Document Type
Article