The skin is closed with interrupted
non-absorbable 3-0 sutures (Figure
8c)
A drain is not used routinely
A thick compressive dressing
is applied and the foot placed
in a reusable prefab splint
The tourniquet is deflated
Post-Operative
Care
The foot is protected by a
removable short leg cast in
neutral foot position for 6
to 8 weeks
Mobilization on crutches with
partial weight-bearing of 15
to 20kg may be allowed at the
surgeon prescribed post operative
time period
A rehabilitation program starts
immediately post-operatively,
depending on achieved wound
healing, it includes:
passive continuous motion
active motion without
weight-bearing
Once bone healing is achieved,
usually after 8 weeks, free
weight-bearing as tolerated
is allowed
A walker or stabilizing shoe
may be recommended an additional
4 to 8 weeks for walks on uneven
ground and for professional
work outside
Athletes should anticipate
return to activity 8 to 12 months
after their reconstruction
Note
Removal of hardware is not recommended
earlier than 8 months after surgery
Under correction of the valgus deformity
is corrected by revision realignment
surgery. Over correction is unlikely.
Progressive ankle arthritis may
need further surgical treatment. However,
total ankle arthroplasty and ankle
fusion are facilitated in the well
aligned arthritic ankle.
