Early Outcomes Following Plantar Condylectomy and Imbrication of Plantar Plate to Metatarsal Neck for Metatarsalgia and Grade 0 Lesser Toe Metatarsophalangeal Joint Instability

Background: Metatarsalgia and plantar plate tears are characterized by forefoot pain and toe deformity in severe cases. Conservative management may slow progression of symptoms; however, definitive treatment often requires operative intervention. The purpose of this observational study was to evaluate the combination of plantar condylectomy and surgical imbrication of the plantar plate to the metatarsal neck to repair grade 0 plantar plate injuries.

Methods: We retrospectively identified 22 patients with metatarsalgia and low-grade plantar plate lesions (grade 0), operated between 2018 and 2021, who underwent operative repair involving plantar metatarsal condylectomy and proximal surgical imbrication of the plantar plate to the metatarsal neck. Fourteen patients underwent concomitant hallux valgus correction. Data collection was performed preoperatively and postoperatively and included Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) physical function (PF) and pain interference (PI) scores. Paired Wilcoxon signed-rank tests compared PROMIS PF and PI scores at patients' preoperative, 6-9-week, 3-4-month, 5-6-month, and ≥9-month follow-up evaluations (P < .05).

Results: Compared to their preoperative visit, patients demonstrated modest improvement in their PROMIS (pain and physical function) scores over the first ≥9 months postoperatively (median 13.0 months). Median preoperative and most recent PROMIS physical function scores were 40.5 (95% CI: 36-49) and 44.5 (95% CI: 40-52), respectively. Median PROMIS pain interference scores changed from 62.5 (95% CI: 56-67) to 56.0 (95% CI: 51-62). Improvement in pain and function was sustained in patients available for postoperative follow-up.

Conclusion: In this small, early follow-up series, we found that plantar condylectomy and surgical imbrication of the plantar plate to the metatarsal neck was modestly helpful to treat metatarsalgia and grade 0 plantar plate injuries.

Level of evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.