Hallux Rigidus Surgery – Hemiarthroplasty

What does the operation involve?

The operation is done as a day case, but come prepared in case you need to stay overnight.

The operation is performed under general anaesthetic and nerve block (which means numbing the nerves of the foot).

The operation involves one incision over the base of the big toe. The abnormal extra bone around the joint is trimmed to free the joint. Half of the joint is removed and replaced by a metal button-shaped prosthesis.

You see the physiotherapist after or before your operation and they give you crutches if needed.

Your post-operative period

You must keep your foot raised for the first two weeks and when necessary afterwards.
You can put your full weight on your foot.
Use crutches if needed.
Exercise big toe when dressings are removed.
The swelling may last for a few months going on and off and finally fading away.

Your follow-up

At two weeks, the dressing is reduced and stitches are removed.
At six weeks for x-rays.
Off work for two to four weeks, depending on your job
No driving for four to six weeks.

What are the possible complications?

Infection
Ongoing pain
Loosening of the implant
Need for further revision surgery
Sensitive or painful scar
Big toe permanent numbness
Joint stiffness
Clots in the leg (DVT)
Clots in the lung (PE)
Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome

Smoking, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or being on steroids or blood-thinning medication increases possible risks significantly.

Fusion vs Replacement

The gold standard treatment of the advanced wear and tear in the big toe joint remains the fusion. However, the fusion causes loss of the movement completely and can leave the patient with some limitations. The recovery after the fusion also usually takes a bit longer as we wait for the 2 sides of the joint to heal together.

The replacement was therefore thought of as an alternative is selected cases. The full replacement of the joint has yielded discouraging results in the literature. It also entails resection of a lot of bone and therefore makes any future surgery in this area more difficult.

The hemi-arthroplasty means replacement of only half the joint.