First Experience with MMI Anchorage Cross Plates for 1st MPJ Arthrodesis

While using the MMI Anchorage Cross Plate (CP) for a 1st MPJ arthrodesis this am, all I could think about was how much easier the plate was making the case for me. I performed the typical joint resection and preparation for fixation application, however, this time I didn't have to worry about trying to place an interfragmental screw with the chance of interfering with one of the locking screws from the plate. The design of the plate made it very simple and straight forward.

Once the plate was positioned to my liking and secured with a guide pin, the plate was removed leaving the guide wire in place. This is where the bone was reamed out to make room for the recessed portion of the plate. This was easily accomplished by hand. Afterwards, the plate fit snuggly into place and was secured using two olive wires that came with the set. My only recommendations here are that (when positioning the plate in reference to the fusion site) you leave yourself enough room on the metatarsal head to create a large enough shelf of bone so that after the dorsal bone is reamed, you do not break out the distal dorsal cortex while inserting the interfrag screw. This did not happen in the case today, as the interfrag screw compressed the joint significantly but it could easily happen if the plate is applied to distal overall. From there on out it was smooth sailing and the remainder of the locking screws were inserted using standard technique and were easily accepted by the plate.

This plate offers something new that is not currently offered by any other company. The plate was not excessive and the design has clearly been thought out well as it was very easy to apply. It was very nice to watch as the the arthrodesis site compressed together with every turn of the compressive screw and with the plate already in position and secured, all I had to do was put in the remaining screws. Like fish in a barrel.