Talus fracture surgery repairs bone injuries on the top of the foot.
What is it?
Talus fracture surgery is a classification of procedures that reset and realign broken bones on the top region of the foot. This surgery requires that the tibia, fibula, and talus are placed in the correct position to ensure proper recovery and facilitate bone growth. The patient has a lengthy recovery period, which includes 8 to 12 weeks in a cast and minimal weight bearing.
What should I do to prepare?
Before receiving surgery, the patient should consult with a physician or surgeon to determine if this surgery is the proper course of action. X-rays and other diagnostic imaging techniques are used to develop a treatment plan. Medication plans and fasting routines may be necessary depending on the surgeon’s guidelines. Talus fracture surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, but the patient should be prepared to remain at the hospital for post-surgical evaluation. Additionally, the patient should arrange travel accommodations in advance.
What happens during the process?
General or local anesthesia is used to prepare the foot region for operation. When the anesthetic effects are felt, the surgeon makes an incision over the break. The talus is repositioned to original form with the tibia and fibula and is locked into position through specialized screw or plates. These devices reinforce the surgical positioning while also allowing for mobility and easy recovery. Additionally, debris from the fracture is cleaned out from the joint to prevent future pain or friction.
What are the risks and potential complications?
Risks for talus fracture surgery, include but are not limited to improper anesthesia, infections, nerve damage, excessive bleeding, an inability of the wound to heal, and bone fractures. Undergoing this surgery does not guarantee a full recovery and it is possible that the patient will experience stiffness in the ankle region and the later development of arthritis.
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