What is the post-operative planning?
What is the post-operative planning?
Cheilectomy: Since there is no joint procedure done, but only bone spur excision, immediate return to normal walking is allowed. The wound will usually take 10-14 days to heal. Early passive big toe movement is advised to prevent the joint stiffness is the main physiotherapy recommended. Takes months to settle.
Arthrodesis: This requires longer rehabilitation as it involves timing for stable bone growth, which usually takes 6-8 weeks. Patient will be protected with cast immediate post-operation and educated for non-weight bearing walking during initial 6 weeks. Radiological check will make at around 6 weeks to confirm if full weight bearing walking is advisable. Patient will be unable to wear high-heeled shoes due to the stiffened big toe (or we sometimes modify the position of fusion so as to tailor the patient’s reasonable need in terms of shoewear).
Arthroplasty: The rehabilitation is similar as arthrodesis, but early mobilization is essential to keep with the surgical benefit. Weight bearing is avoided for soft tissue stabilization, which usually takes 4-6 weeks.