Calcaneal Osteotomy 

If you suffer from severe pain in the feet due to an injury, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What is a Calcaneal Osteotomy?

Physicians frequently use a Calcaneal osteotomy as a surgical procedure to correct the deformity of the foot and ankle. The foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon performs a controlled breakdown of the heel bone during the procedure to rectify the problems in the foot and ankle. The normal functioning of the foot and ankle is adversely affected due to the abnormal alignment of the calcaneus. Calcaneal osteotomy is a highly successful procedure for relieving pain, and improving alignment of the calcaneus. Not to get confused with Osteotomy for Malunion which deals with the hand. 

Diagnosis

Patients with recurrent ankle sprains, lateral ankle pains, chronic ankle instability, or an abnormally shifted heel may benefit from calcaneal osteotomy. Moreover, these symptoms often indicate underlying structural issues within the foot and ankle complex, affecting stability and functionality. Additionally, calcaneal osteotomy surgically alters the shape or alignment of the heel bone. This aims to correct these issues, aiming to realign the heel, restore proper foot mechanics, alleviate pain, and improve overall ankle stability. Surgeons typically recommend this procedure for patients who have not found relief through conservative treatments and continue to experience persistent symptoms that affect their daily activities and quality of life. Consulting with a foot and ankle specialist is crucial to determine if calcaneal osteotomy is the appropriate course of action to effectively address these specific conditions.

The orthopaedic surgeon will do the clinical diagnosis of the problem using techniques such as Coleman block test or X-ray to assess the flexibility of the hind foot deformity. This will aid in assisting with the surgical reconstruction plan.

Calcaneal Osteotomy Procedure

During the surgical procedure of calcaneal osteotomy, the orthopaedic surgeon begins by making a skin incision on the outer aspect of the heel bone. Carefully, the surgeon makes precise cuts across the heel bone, ensuring to protect associated nerves and blood vessels. Subsequently, the surgeon shifts the back part of the heel bone either inward or outward to correct its alignment. Surgical implants such as screws are commonly used to stabilize the bones and facilitate healing.

Anesthesiologists administer anesthesia to ensure the patient remains pain-free throughout the procedure, which typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours. Following surgery, most patients can return home the same day. This procedure aims to restore proper foot mechanics, alleviate pain, and improve overall ankle stability for individuals experiencing persistent symptoms related to heel misalignment and ankle instability.

Recovery

A patient undergoing calcaneal osteotomy typically requires approximately six weeks for the bone to heal properly. During this healing period, it is crucial for the patient to follow post-operative care instructions diligently to promote optimal recovery. This includes keeping weight off the foot as directed by the surgeon, using any prescribed assistive devices like crutches or a walker, and attending scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

The recovery process may also involve physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the foot and ankle. Patients should avoid activities that place undue stress on the healing bone and follow guidelines for gradually increasing activity levels as advised by their healthcare provider. By adhering to these recommendations, patients can help ensure successful healing of the bone. Furthermore, achieving improvement of the foot function and reduced pain over time.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist in North Texas, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.