Hallux limitus and rigidus has been a longstanding problem in podiatry with a plethora of treatment options including joint sparing and joint destructive procedures. Implants have been developed over the years to attempt to maintain range of motion and relieve pain. A polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel product has recently has recently become available and has gained some popularity. However, limited literature has been published on outcomes. This case series reports radiographic joint space changes in a cohort of patients who received this product.  The investigators found a significant increase in joint space at the first postoperative visit. However, at 12 weeks the joint space was significantly decreased. 

Article PDF

Article Source

Shi E, Todd N, Rush E, et al. First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Space Area Decreases Within 1 Month After Implantation of a Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogel Implant: A Retrospective Radiographic Case Series. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2019 Nov;58(6):1288-1292.

See the next article HERE

This ezine and the overall sponsorship of PRESENT Podiatry was made possible through the support of our sponsors:

Grand Sponsor

---