Arthroscopic queilectomy for the treatment of hallux rigidus

Abstract

Hallux rigidus is the limitation of motion of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint. Its pathogenesis is still not well-defined. Cartilage damage is believed to initiate with synovitis, which leads to further cartilage destruction, osteophyte proliferation, and subchondral bone damage. Options for treatment range from conservative to surgical management which options are queilectomy, metatarsal and falangeal osteotomies, arthroplasty with or without implants and arthrodesis as well. We reported a case of a 55-year-old male patient, who presented with pain in the metatarseophalangeal joint of the left halux with extension limitation with 2 years of increasing pain. He also related difficulty to stand on tiptoes. Radiographs showed metatarseophalangic arthrosis. He was submitted to arthoscopic queilectomy and presented remission of the pain and function despite the degenerative articular process remained active.