Use of RegJoint™ Implant in First MTP Joint Osteoarthritis – 9-Year Follow-Up Study (2021)
Dr. Partio et al. (2021) conducted a long-term follow-up study on bioabsorbable poly-L/D-lactide (PLDLA) RegJoint™ implants used in interpositional arthroplasty for hallux rigidus and arthritic hallux valgus. The study followed 15 patients (21 joints) for an average of 9.4 years. These patients were initially operated during the clinical trial between 1997 – 2002.
Key Findings:
- Significant pain reduction (VAS 77.5 → 10.0; p < 0.001)
- AOFAS scores improved (mean 40 → 80.5)
- 18 joints were symptom-free, 3 had mild symptoms
- Radiographs showed degenerative changes, but these did not correlate with clinical symptoms
- Only 2 patients required revision surgery (arthrodesis)
Conclusion:
The PLDLA implant is a safe and effective alternative to arthrodesis, especially for younger, active patients, preserving joint mobility.
Full reference, link to publication below: Partio, N., Ponkilainen, V. T., Rinkinen, V., Honkanen, P., Haapasalo, H., Laine, H.-J., & Mäenpää, H. M. (2021). Interpositional Arthroplasty of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint with Bioresorbable Pldla Implant in the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus and Arthritic Hallux Valgus: A 9-Year Case Series Follow-Up. Scandinavian Journal of Surgery, 110(1), 93–98. https://doi.org/10.1177/1457496919893597