WEIL METATARSAL OSTEOTOMY

If you need a Weil Metatarsal Osteotomy, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Weil Osteotomy?

The Weil osteotomy, also known as the Weil metatarsal osteotomy, is a surgical procedure performed to correct certain foot conditions, such as metatarsalgia, hammertoes, and forefoot deformities. Metatarsalgia is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often due to excessive pressure on the metatarsal heads (the heads of the long bones in the foot).

The Weil osteotomy involves a shortening or repositioning of the metatarsal bone to redistribute weight-bearing forces and alleviate pressure on the affected area. The procedure is named after the French orthopedic surgeon Gérard Weil, who first described it.

The general steps of the Weil osteotomy include:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is usually given local or regional anesthesia to numb the foot during the surgery.
2. Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision over the affected metatarsal bone to access the area.
3. Bone adjustment: The surgeon carefully shortens or repositions the metatarsal bone to relieve pressure on the metatarsal heads and adjacent soft tissues.
4. Fixation: To maintain the correct position of the metatarsal bone, the surgeon may use specialized implants such as screws or pins to secure the bone in place.
5. Closure: After the osteotomy is completed and any necessary soft tissue adjustments are made, the incision is closed with sutures, and the surgical site is dressed and bandaged.

Post-operatively, the patient may need to use crutches or a walker for a period of non-weight-bearing on the foot to allow for proper bone healing. A cast or a specialized boot may also be used to protect the foot during the initial healing phase.

Recovery from the Weil osteotomy involves rest, elevation, and gradual return to weight-bearing activities under the guidance of a foot and ankle specialist. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises may be recommended to aid in the recovery process and improve foot function.

The Weil osteotomy is generally considered an effective treatment for metatarsalgia and certain forefoot deformities. It can help alleviate pain, redistribute pressure on the foot, and improve overall foot function. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, including infection, delayed bone healing, and the possibility of recurrent foot issues.

The decision to undergo the Weil osteotomy is made after a thorough evaluation and discussion with an orthopedic surgeon or a foot and ankle specialist, who will assess the individual’s specific condition, medical history, and overall health to determine if the procedure is the appropriate treatment option.

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