First metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis: quantitative mechanical testing of six-hole dorsal plate versus crossed screw fixation in cadaveric specimens.

Quantitative strength analysis of first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis was performed using two fixation techniques: a small 6-hole plate with an interfragmentary screw or two crossed lag screws. Twelve matched-pair fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens (24 trials) were used for direct comparison of each of the two fixation techniques. All joint surfaces were prepared with power conical reamers utilizing a standard technique. The fixation construct was stressed to failure on each specimen using a computer-integrated materials tester. Fixation stiffness defined as force (load) over displacement and point of ultimate failure was evaluated. The six-hole plate and interfragmentary screw fixation method was a statistically stiffer form of fixation (p > .01) and displayed a greater point of ultimate failure (p > .002) under the laboratory conditions.