First MTP Fusion
Post Operative Instructions
Cast:
You will have a dressing and a post op sandal on your ankle and foot for 6 weeks following surgery
At 6 weeks, you will wean off the sandal and begin walking in a regular shoe
Wound:
The surgical incision has been closed with sutures
Do not get the cast or wound wet for the first two weeks. When showering place a bag over the cast and secure with tape to your leg to avoid the cast and wound getting wet
Stitches will be removed at your 2 week appointment
After the stitches are removed, you may begin to shower after 2-3 days
Do not immerse the foot in water (bath, hot tub, pool) for 4 weeks
Do not apply any lotions or creams on the wound for 6 weeks
Weight Bearing:
You may walk on your heel only for the first 6 weeks while in a walking boot. You will be given crutches if needed
After 6 weeks you may begin fully walking on the foot
Medications:
You will be given a prescription for pain medication and Aspirin (blood thinner)
Pain medication should be used regularly for the first 24-48 hours, when required for the first 1 to 2 weeks, followed by Regular Tylenol
Aspirin should be taken for 10 days
Driving:
For right foot surgery you are not permitted to drive until you have completely weaned off the boot
For left foot surgery, please contact your insurance company to see if you are permitted to drive
Driving is not permitted while on narcotics
Work:
You will be in a cast for the first two weeks following surgery
You will be permitted to put weight through your heel only. If you are able to get to work safely, and will be seated for the majority of the day, you may return to work a couple days after surgery
Return to full duties is usually possible after 8-12 weeks
Follow Up:
You will have your first appointment 2 weeks after surgery in the Fracture Clinic
Your next appointments will be at 6 weeks, 3 months then 6 months post operatively
You will have x-rays taken at these appointments
Recovery:
It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain, numbness, or tingling for the first 2 weeks following surgery
Please come to the emergency department if you are suffering from severe pain
You will get back to most of your activities by 3 months
Swelling often remains for 6-12 months
You are expected to experience a FULL recovery (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, etc.) in 9-12 months
Physiotherapy:
For the first 2 weeks you should perform hip and knee exercises in the cast
From 2-6 weeks you may remove the boot 5-10 times per day and perform range of motion exercises for your ankle only
After 6 weeks you will begin to walk without the boot and begin strengthening the foot and ankle – you will be referred for formal physiotherapy at this time