Great toe motion is started within the first week after surgery. In 1988, Mann and Clanton reported satisfactory results in 90 percent of patients treated with a cheilectomy. Hattrup and Johnson demonstrated less satisfactory results when degenerative changes were present within the joint. He walks with a limp and is unable to perform his usual recreational activities due to pain. In addition, he has pain at rest.
Radiographs show dorsal osteophytes with advanced degenerative changes.
An arthrodesis is indicated in this case. Although one may elect to perform a cheilectomy when there is mild to moderate degenerative changes present, good pain relief is not likely with more advanced changes and symptoms that this patient demonstrates. Arthrodesis maintains stability and weightbearing of the first ray. Many successful techniques have been described. I prefer to use a dorsal plate.