Percutaneous Treatment of Grade I/II Hallux Rigidus in Active Patients: Surgical Technique and Outcomes

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Fernando Emanuel Rosales Andérica
Benito Liprandi

Abstract

Introduction: Hallux rigidus is the most common degenerative condition affecting the foot. This study aims to present the outcomes of a percutaneous surgical technique designed to improve range of motion and relieve pain in active patients.
Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of all patients diagnosed with mild to moderate hallux rigidus who underwent minimally invasive/percutaneous surgery, involving dorsal cheilectomy of the first metatarsal combined with a dorsal wedge osteotomy of the first metatarsal and proximal phalanx of the hallux, between June 2019 and June 2022. The minimum follow-up period was 12 months, with a maximum of 36 months.
Results: A total of 15 patients (19 feet) were included, with a mean age of 54 years (range: 38–71). The visual analog scale (VAS) score decreased from 7 preoperatively to 0.7 postoperatively (p < 0.05). Mean dorsiflexion increased from 30° to 49° (p < 0.05), while plantarflexion improved from 14° to 20° (p < 0.05). The mean AOFAS score increased from 60 (range: 52–68) preoperatively to 85 (range: 81–89) at the final follow-up (p < 0.001).
Conclusions: The minimally invasive approach—dorsal cheilectomy combined with dorsiflexion osteotomy of the distal metatarsal and proximal phalanx—appears to be a reliable long-term treatment for grade I/II hallux rigidus. This technique offers a safe and effective alternative for active patients, achieving optimal functional outcomes with minimal pain and only minor, common complications.

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How to Cite
Rosales Andérica, F. E., & Liprandi, B. (2025). Percutaneous Treatment of Grade I/II Hallux Rigidus in Active Patients: Surgical Technique and Outcomes. Revista De La Asociación Argentina De Ortopedia Y Traumatología, 90(2), 150-156. https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2025.90.2.1921
Section
Clinical Research
Author Biographies

Fernando Emanuel Rosales Andérica, Artro Nea, Traumatology and Sports Center, Corrientes, Argentina

Artro Nea, Traumatology and Sports Center, Corrientes, Argentina

Benito Liprandi, Traumatology Department, Hospital “José Ramón Vidal”, Corrientes, Argentina

Traumatology Department, Hospital “José Ramón Vidal”, Corrientes, Argentina

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