Tarsometatarsal Arthrodesis: What Is It?
The goal of this type of surgery is to fuse or glue together (arthrodesis)
some of the small joints in the middle of the foot.
This type of surgery does not affect the up-and-down movement of the foot at
all. The side-to-side movement (inversion and eversion) of the middle of the
foot is affected in a very minor way but is difficult to feel.
Screws with or without a small plate are inserted into the bones to hold the
joints together while the fusion occurs. Once the joint is fused the screws
are not necessary, but are rarely removed.
Most cases can be done with a minimally invasive technique to reduce
postoperative pain and expedite bone healing.
Midfoot Fusion Surgery - General Recovery Facts
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Postoperative weight bearing will depend on the procedure performed. Most
patients are allowed immediate weight bearing after surgery.
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If you need to stay off your foot, you will need to use crutches, a walker,
a wheelchair or a scooter-type device called a roll-about.
- There will be bandages applied to the leg for two weeks after surgery
- Your first follow-up visit will be at approximately 2 weeks
- We will usually apply a removable boot for you to wear at this time
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If the surgery is on your left foot, you should be able to drive an
automatic vehicle at two weeks. If the surgery is on the right foot, you may
drive between 3 and 4 weeks
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Physical therapy for 1-2 months is helpful to regain strength and movement
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There will be moderate swelling of the foot, ankle, and leg for about 6-12
months
Midfoot Fusion Surgery - Specific Post-Operative Course
Week 0-2
- Foot wrapped in a bulky bandage and splint
- Ice, elevate, take pain medication
- Expect numbness in foot 12-24 hours then pain
- Blood drainage through bandage expected
- Do not change bandage
Week 2-6
- First follow-up in the office
- Dressing changed
- Placed in boot
Week 6
- Most patients will be allowed to use a shoe
- Full weight-bearing is allowed
Week 12
- X-ray taken
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Start an Exercise program, physical therapy is useful to decrease swelling
- You should wear a stiff-soled shoe for one to two months
Request Your Appointment Today!
To request your appointment, please call
(305) 674-2090 or
contact us online today!
Our Location
Ettore Vulcano, MD (Mount Sinai Medical Center)
4302 Alton Road, Suite 220
Miami Beach, FL 33140
Phone:
(305) 674-2090
Orthopedic surgeon serving patients in Miami Beach, Miami, and the
surrounding South Florida communities.