Implant arthroplasty of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint--a modified technique.

The authors report on their experience with the Niebauer-Cutter prosthesis in arthroplasty of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint. Although their experience has been limited to ten patients over a 2 1/2 year period, the authors claim that a smaller size prosthesis can be used because of the non-weightbearing position of the implant. In their experiences, metatarsophalangeal joint alignment was maintained or re-established, relief of pain was obtained, metatarsophalangeal joint stability was established, tissue reactions did not occur, "floating toe" was eliminated and a more acceptable tendon balance was obtained.