End-stage osteoarthritis of the great toe/hallux rigidus: a review of the alternatives to arthrodesis: implant versus osteotomies and arthroplasty techniques.

Hallux rigidus is defined as end-staged arthrosis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Although the literature supports arthrodesis as being the gold standard for the treatment of end-staged hallux rigidus, there are several other treatments available that can either prolong the life of the remaining joint or artificially mimic the original biomechanics by replacing a portion of or the entire joint with the added advantage of preserving joint mobility. There are several new and emerging joint preservative techniques that may delay or prevent the need for a joint-destructive procedure, such as arthrodesis or arthroplasty.