Early Catastrophic Failure of a Synthetic Cartilage Implant for Hallux Rigidus.

Hallux rigidus is a common arthritic disorder of the foot. Surgical treatments are varied, from isolated cheilectomy to arthrodesis. A synthetic cartilage implant has been embraced recently as a joint-sparing alternative to arthrodesis, with good early and midterm outcomes. However, early clinical failures have been described relating to implant subsidence. This case report focuses on another mode of failure consisting of early catastrophic wear resulting in conversion to a lengthening arthrodesis at short-term follow-up. Levels of Evidence: Level V.