Surgical Treatment of End-Stage Hallux Rigidus Using a Total All-Ceramic Endoprosthesis: A Short-Term case series and literature review

Introduction Hallux rigidus is a degenerative arthropathy of the first MTP causing significant discomfort and pain to the patient. Treatment options include a conservative and surgical approach. This report and review describe cases of using all-ceramic implants for 3 patients, conceptualized through a comprehensive literature review. Methods This prospective case series reports 3 patients undergoing surgery on implanting an all-ceramic implant to the first MTP with 6-month follow-up. The comprehensive literature review for the use of ceramic implants was done. Case Series 3 patients underwent implantation of an all-ceramic first MTP. The AOFAS score was calculated before surgery and during follow-up. Results show improvement in the AOFAS score and preservation of the results over time. The radiographic examination revealed stability of the implant. Discussion The results of this case series align with early reports in the literature suggesting promising short-term benefits of ceramic MTP joint arthroplasty. While case series with longer follow-up report controversial results, the limitations of studies and lack of RCTs show the need for additional investigations. Conclusion Ceramic MTP joint arthroplasty offers significant short-term relief and functional gains. Longer-term follow-up is essential to identify whether these improvements are sustained and assess the risk of complications.