A Comparison of PROMIS Scores of Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis and Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogel Implant Hemiarthroplasty for Hallux Rigidus

Background: The current literature shows similar clinical outcomes between first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint arthrodesis and synthetic cartilage implant (SCI) hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of hallux rigidus; however, prior studies have not reported validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare PROMs using 6 domains of the validated Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) in patients treated for hallux rigidus with MTP joint arthrodesis and with SCI hemiarthroplasty. In addition, this novel study provides comparative data on the complication and revision rates for each procedure. Methods: A single-center, retrospective registry search identified all patients with preoperative PROMIS scores who underwent MTP joint arthrodesis or SCI hemiarthroplasty for hallux rigidus between February 2016 and June 2021. The study aimed to determine if the 2 procedures showed statistically or clinically equivalent PROMIS scores in 6 domains: physical function, pain interference, pain intensity, global physical health, global mental health, and depression. A multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to compare adjusted 1-year postoperative PROMIS scores between the 2 cohorts. Complication and revision rates were also compared. Results: The study included 82 patients who underwent SCI hemiarthroplasty and 101 who underwent MTP joint arthrodesis. Demographic data and preoperative hallux rigidus severity showed no significant differences between the cohorts. PROMIS scores were mostly comparable between the 2 groups, except for the pain intensity domain. The patients who underwent MTP joint arthrodesis exhibited significantly better pain relief at 1 and 2 years postoperatively, which was supported by adjusted postoperative PROMIS scores. At 2 years, the SCI group had worse pain intensity scores and lower global physical health scores. There were no differences between the cohorts in additional PROMIS scores or complication data. Conclusions: While outcomes in most of the domains were similar, MTP joint arthrodesis was more effective at mitigating pain intensity compared with SCI hemiarthroplasty. This information can guide patient counseling and decision-making when considering surgical intervention for hallux rigidus.