Cheilectomy Surgery Perth

A cheilectomy is the standard procedure used to treat mild to moderate hallux rigidus. Often hallux rigidus is caused by overgrowth and spurring of bone around the metatarsal-phalangeal joint that acts as a doorstop and restricts the range of motion needed for normal activities.

A cheilectomy involves removal of these bony blocks to allow the joint to move freely again. This procedure forms the base of a hallux rigidus correction and while it can be performed alone in mild cases, it is often used in combined with other procedures.

The surgery will involve an incision and surgical fracture (cut) to one or more bones in your foot, allowing the excess and disruptive bone to be removed. There is no internal fixation required for a cheilectomy because the excess bone is removed.

A cheilectomy is appropriate for mild to moderate hallux rigidus cases. This simple procedure does not significantly disrupt the bones or joints of the foot leading to faster weight bearing and recovery. There are risks associated with all surgery and Dr Pocklington (Podiatric Surgeon) will discuss these with you in detail prior to your surgery. A Cheilectomy procedure takes between 15 minutes and half an hour to perform. Anaesthetic injections are used to numb your foot locally in all cases, but an anaesthetist will also provide either a general anaesthetic or IV sedation.

Usually a cheilectomy surgery is a day procedure allowing you to immediately weight bear on your foot in a stiff sole surgical shoe. Sometimes people stay overnight at a private hospital and return home the following day.

Pain after a cheilectomy is minimal and relief required after surgery usually limited. If pain does occur a combination of painkillers and anti-inflammatories is generally used. However, paracetamol is usually all that is required within the first week.

Wound healing occurs within 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery and during this time restricted activities, including time off work is recommended. Dressings are removed and replaced at 1 week, giving you an opportunity to see your progress and discuss it with Dr Pocklington (Podiatric Surgeon). Sutures are usually removed at 2 weeks. The process of healing after surgery is important and requires ongoing attention from your surgeon. A podiatric range of motion exercise and stretching rehabilitation program begins immediately to ensure function is returned to the foot, toe and your life as soon as possible.

Please book online to speak with Dr Pocklington (Podiatric Surgeon) about hallux rigidus correction.