Mid and Hindfoot Correction

Learn more about mid and hindfoot correction surgery at King Edward VII’s Hospital

Why would I need mid and hindfoot correction surgery?

Most patients requiring this kind of surgery need it because they have a deformity or disease in one or multiple bones or the tendons in the mid or hind foot.

This can be due to injury, such as a broken bone, conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis or problems with the tendons that can cause the arch of the foot to tighten leading to a flat foot.

Mid and hindfoot correction surgery is often used in patients with foot pain that has not been improved by physiotherapy alone.

What symptoms does mid and hindfoot correction surgery address?

Deformities and conditions affecting the bones and tendons of the mid and back foot can cause pain and discomfort. They can also mean that wearing shoes or other footwear is difficult leading to problems with walking and mobility.

This can affect the quality of life of someone with these problems. Mid and hindfoot correction surgery aims to relieve pain in the foot and increase mobility to improve quality of life.

It can also be used in cases where previous surgery has failed to correct a bone deformity or when a bone has failed to heal properly.

Mid and hindfoot correction surgery can be carried out in multiple ways. Common examples include a tendon transfer procedure to treat conditions such as flattened foot arch. It can also involve an osteotomy, where a deformed bone is cut and realigned, or treatment using surgical plates and screws to fix a broken bone or to fuse bones together to increase stability.

When should you speak to your specialist about mid and hindfoot correction surgery?

If you have pain and discomfort in the middle or back of your foot, speak to your GP. They may perform some tests and scans and may refer you for mid and hindfoot correction surgery.

How is mid and hindfoot correction surgery performed?

Mid and hindfoot correction surgery is performed when you’re asleep under a general anaesthetic. How long the surgery takes will depend on the severity and complexity of your foot problems.

The surgical procedure will vary depending on the reason for your surgery. On a general level, your surgeon will make an incision in the skin covering the affected area. They will then use surgical instruments to loosen the tendons or fix the bones using surgical plates and screws.

They will then stitch or clip the wound together and apply a dressing.

What is the recovery like for mid and hindfoot correction surgery?

Your recovery from mid and hindfoot correction surgery will depend on multiple factors, including your age, fitness level and the nature of your procedure.

Some patients require a night in hospital following mid and hindfoot correction surgery and others may be able to return home the same day.

You will be provided with instructions from your nursing team on how best to recover at home. This will include when your dressing will be removed, when your stitches may dissolve or need to be removed and how long you may need to use crutches or a walking frame.

Your physiotherapy team will also advise you when you may be able to put weight on your foot and when and how to perform rehabilitation exercises to aid your recovery.

Are there any risks/complications associated with mid and hindfoot correction surgery?

As with any medical procedure, it’s possible for risks or complications to arise. Speaking with your specialist or surgeon beforehand will help you avoid any adverse reactions.

Mid and hindfoot correction surgery has a relatively low risk of serious complications, but the following risks and complications can occur in a small number of cases:

• Infection
• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Bone or tendon deformities returning

How can I prepare for mid and hindfoot correction surgery?

Prior to mid and hindfoot correction surgery, your surgeon will discuss with you how best to prepare, as each patient is different with differing needs.

Common preparations for mid and hindfoot correction surgery include:

• Routine blood tests, x rays or scans as requested by your surgeon
• Taking steps to stop smoking if you smoke
• Losing weight if you’re overweight
• Remaining active and doing regular exercise

Are there alternatives for mid and hindfoot correction surgery?

You may be able to manage your pain and discomfort by taking painkillers and wearing soft, wide, flat footwear. It may also help to apply ice packs to the affected area or by wearing special foam pads in your shoes to cushion your feet.