Joint Replacement
Toe Joint Replacement – How the Surgery Works
The big toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal joint) bears a substantial share of your body weight with every step. In advanced osteoarthritis (hallux rigidus), the joint becomes increasingly stiff and pushing off becomes painful.
A small prosthesis replaces the worn joint surfaces of the metatarsal head and the toe bone while preserving the mobility of the big toe – the joint-preserving alternative to fusion (arthrodesis).
Which prosthesis is right?
Resurfacing prosthesis
Replacement of the worn joint surfaces of the metatarsal head and toe bone while preserving the surrounding bone.
Resection arthroplasty
A joint-preserving alternative without an implant when a prosthesis is not suitable – the joint surfaces are smoothed and a small amount of bone is removed.
Revision surgery
Replacement of a loosened or worn toe joint prosthesis.
How the surgery works
Planning
X-rays assess the extent of the osteoarthritis and determine the correct prosthesis size.
Anaesthesia
The surgery is usually performed under regional anaesthesia (an ankle block), or general anaesthesia on request.
Access
The joint is exposed through a small incision on the top of the foot.
Preparing the joint
The worn joint surfaces of the metatarsal head and toe bone are prepared for the implant.
Inserting the prosthesis
The small prosthesis components are anchored in the metatarsal bone and the base of the big toe.
Checking mobility
Mobility and alignment of the big toe are checked before the wound is closed.
After the surgery
A forefoot relief shoe protects the operated joint for the first few weeks. Physiotherapy and suitable footwear support the return to full mobility.
More about physiotherapy →Your specialists for the Big Toe Joint
Dr. Peter MarkSpecialist in Orthopaedics, RheumatologyFocus: Foot · Hip · KneeLearn more →
Dr. Gunnar SaxSpecialist in Orthopaedics and Trauma SurgeryFocus: Foot · Hip · KneeLearn more →
Dr. Dirk LacknerSpecialist in Orthopaedics and Trauma SurgeryFocus: Foot · ShoulderLearn more →
Dipl. med. Wilm HeckerSpecialist in Orthopaedics and Trauma SurgeryFocus: Foot · Hip · KneeLearn more →
Dr. Sefer FidanSpecialist in Orthopaedics and Trauma SurgeryFocus: Foot · Hip · KneeLearn more →This overview does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Which procedure is right for you is something you decide together with your doctor during your appointment.