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WEIL OSTEOTOMY FOR HALLUX RIGIDUS

Method
Correction of the position of the metatarsal by a sliding osteotomy
Duration
about 30 to 45 minutes
Recovery time
6 to 10 weeks

The Weil osteotomy is a surgical procedure for treating complaints in the forefoot, particularly with hallux rigidus, metatarsalgia or in combination with hammer toes. The aim is to lengthen or shorten the metatarsal bones in order to normalise the biomechanics, reduce pain and correct deformities.

What is a Weil osteotomy?

How the operation proceeds

  • Incision over the affected metatarsal bone
  • An oblique saw cut allowing a controlled shift
  • Moving the head of the bone into its natural position
  • Fixation with a small titanium screw
  • Checking the position of the toe and the soft-tissue balance

Rehabilitation after a Weil osteotomy

After a Weil osteotomy, functional aftercare with controlled loading is decisive for the healing of the bone and for the functional result.

Phase I (0-4 weeks): unloading and wound healing
  • Wearing a forefoot offloading shoe (day and night)
  • Elevation of the foot to prevent swelling
  • Wound checks, removal of sutures after about 14 days
  • No roll-off movement over the forefoot
Phase II (5-8 weeks): increasing load
  • Changing to a comfortable, firm shoe once medically cleared
  • Beginning physiotherapy exercises for mobilisation
  • Building up the muscles of the foot and improving toe movement
  • Balance training for a secure gait
Phase III (from week 9): return to everyday life
  • Returning to work and everyday tasks, depending on the job
  • Normal loading of the foot under physiotherapy supervision
  • Sporting activities (cycling, swimming) once cleared
  • Follow-up examinations to assess the consolidation of the bone