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MIDFOOT ARTHRODESIS
What is a midfoot arthrodesis?
Midfoot arthrodesis is a procedure where the separate bones in your food are fused together permanently to treat flat foot, arthritis and fractures that have healed on their own. This procedure may also be used to treat wear and tear of cartilage and bones over time.
The midfoot refers to the bones and joints that make up the arch and connect the forefoot to the hindfoot. These joints do not bend or move and are responsible for foot support and strength. Midfoot fusion may be done to all the joints; however, in most cases, foot fusion is done in one or a few joints. The main goal of foot fusion is to reduce pain and also improve function.
When is a midfoot arthrodesis recommended?
Midfoot arthrodesis is commonly recommended if you are suffering from flat foot, painful arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, as well as other medical conditions such as fractures which may be due to wear and tear of the bones and cartilage. It may also be recommended for reasons such as:
- Conservative treatment has been exhausted
- When there is too much movement of one or more joints
- A deformity that may be present, which may be caused by severe bunions, arthritis and flat foot deformity
- Acute fractures
- Joint displacement
What does a midfoot arthrodesis entail?
This procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, and local anaesthesia may also be administered in the foot to help reduce pain. During the procedure, Dr Gräbe will make an incision on your foot to expose and remove the damaged cartilage. He may then place a bone graft in between the bones to fuse the bones together. Screws and plates will be used to stabilize and hold the bones together. After the procedure, the incision will be stitched closed and over time the bones will fuse together.