Foot Osteotomy
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What is a foot osteotomy?
A foot osteotomy is surgery to remove parts of a bone in your foot. The bone is reshaped to relieve pressure from deformity or injury. Some examples include a fracture, bunion, hammer toe, or flat foot.
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How do I prepare for surgery?
You will have several x-rays of your foot before the surgery. The x-rays will help your healthcare providers plan your surgery. Your healthcare provider may tell you not to eat after midnight the day before your surgery. He or she will tell what medicines to take or not to take the morning of your surgery. Arrange to have someone drive you home and stay with you after surgery.
What will happen during surgery?
You will be given anesthesia medicine. The type of anesthesia will depend on what other surgery is being done with the osteotomy. You may be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during surgery. You may instead be given anesthesia in your spine, leg, or foot to numb the surgery area. With this type of anesthesia, you may still feel pressure or pushing during surgery, but you should not feel any pain.
- Your surgeon will make an incision over the area to be fixed. The bone will be cut. A wedge shaped piece of bone may be removed. Your bone will be moved into it's proper place. Pins, screws, or plates may be put in to hold your bone in place.
- The incision will be closed with stitches and a bandage will be placed over your foot. You may not be able to put weight on your foot for as long as directed. You may instead be given a special boot or shoe to wear that protects your foot while it heals. You may need to have a cast placed a few weeks after surgery once the swelling decreases.
What will happen after surgery?
You may be able to go home after surgery. You may need to use crutches or a knee walker to keep weight off your foot. Have someone to help you for the first few days after surgery.
What are the risks of a foot osteotomy?
You may bleed more than expected or develop an infection. The nerves or blood vessels in your foot may be damaged. Your bone may not heal as expected. You may need another surgery. You may still have pain and stiffness.
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Further information
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