Big Toe Joint Fusion Surgery

What is big toe joint fusion surgery?

Arthroplasty for big toe arthritis is a minimally invasive surgery that is typically performed as a day case procedure. The surgery is carried out under general anaesthesia, and a pain-relieving local anaesthetic is administered post-operatively around the wound to alleviate any discomfort.

During the surgery, your consultant will remove any damaged cartilage or bone in the joint and replace it with artificial implants or bone grafts to restore normal function and alleviate pain. This procedure is known to provide excellent results in reducing pain and improving mobility in the affected joint.

After the surgery, you’ll be provided with specific post-operative instructions, which may include keeping the foot elevated and avoiding certain activities to ensure proper healing. Your consultant will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your rehabilitation plan.

What does big toe joint fusion surgery involve?

Big toe joint fusion surgery involves making a minor incision on the top of the big toe to access the damaged joint. Your surgeon will then remove the damaged bone before fusing the joint using a tiny plate and screw.

Why might I need big toe joint fusion surgery?

If you’re experiencing stiffness, swelling, and inflammation in your big toe joint due to arthritis, big toe joint fusion surgery may be recommended. This type of surgery is a common treatment option for patients with advanced big toe arthritis who haven’t responded to non-surgical treatments such as medication or physical therapy.

How long does it take to recover?

Upon discharge from the hospital, you will be provided with instructions on how to walk using crutches and a surgical sandal to help you move around without putting weight on the operated areas. Bruising, soreness, and swelling of the foot are common postoperative symptoms, which can be minimized by resting as much as possible and keeping your leg elevated above your heart. However, it is recommended to perform toe-wriggling exercises to aid your recovery without causing any damage.

Depending on the nature of your job, you may be able to resume work a week after surgery if you can work from home. However, if your job involves heavy manual labor, you may need to wait up to three months before returning to work, depending on your recovery progress.

Around two weeks after your surgery, you will have your bulky dressings and stitches removed, and a toe alignment splint will be given to you, along with exercises to help you recover. If the surgery was on your left foot, you can start driving an automatic car after this point, but it is important to confirm with your consultant and car insurance provider.

After three weeks, you can begin putting weight on your foot with a normal shoe, but keep in mind that it is still likely to be swollen. After the wound has completely healed, swimming and applying moisturizer can help reduce scarring. You can resume low-impact sports after six weeks, and your foot should be moving normally by this point. However, it is essential not to overdo it and avoid walking long distances. Higher impact sports can be resumed around ten to twelve weeks after surgery.

What is the long-term impact of big toe joint fusion surgery?

Six months after surgery patients are usually able to return to their normal activity levels, including participating in high impact sports. Some swelling may remain at this point, but a year after your operation healing should be complete and any remaining swelling will have disappeared. Patients should be able to return to their normal lifestyle.

Dr. Prasad Bhagunde

MS Ortho D Ortho DNB

Senior Orthopaedic Consultant and Sports Medicine Surgeon