MINIMALLY INVASIVE Hallux Fusion in Miami Beach, FL

Hallux Fusion - Fusion of the Hallux MP Joint. What is it?

• This operation is designed to glue (fuse) the big toe joint together. It is also called an arthrodesis of the big toe or metatarsophalangeal joint. This is a very commonly performed operation for arthritis and deformity of the big toe joint.
• Once fused, the big toe does not move except at the end joint
• The toe is positioned according to the need to roll off the big toe, exercise or the desire to different types including high heel shoes
• Once fusion is successful, you will be able to wear most shoes, including a high heel if desired of about one and a half inches.
• There are no limits to exercise activities after the fusion, including all sports and running.

Hallux Fusion Recovery - General Facts

• In most patients, the surgery can be performed with a minimally invasive (keyhole surgery) technique
• You are able to walk on the outside of the foot the day after surgery
• You must wear your surgical shoe at all times until the joint is fused
• You may not walk on the barefoot at all even in the house without this shoe
• You may drive as soon as comfortable, usually at 4 days if the left foot and 21 days if the right foot.
• The surgical shoe is worn for 6-8 weeks
• Limited exercise that does not involve any bending of the big toe joint is allowed at about 4 weeks after surgery

Hallux Fusion Recovery - Specific Post-Operative Course

Week 0-2

• Foot wrapped in a bulky bandage and surgical shoe
• Ice, elevate, take pain medication
• Blood drainage through bandage is expected
• Do not remove surgical shoe

Week 2-6

• Shower allowed

Week 6

• Remove surgical shoe
• Do not roll off on the big toe for one more month.
• A stiff-soled shoe is important for one to two months
• A regular shoe may then be worn as comfortable