Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgeon
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Total toe Arthroplasty, also known as total toe replacement, is a surgical procedure for the treatment of toe arthritis or severe trauma to the toe in which worn out or damaged portions of the toe joint are removed and replaced with an artificial prosthesis. The most commonly performed total toe arthroplasty is the great toe arthroplasty or metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthroplasty. The great toe is also referred to as “big toe” or “hallux.”

Big Toe Replacement can be done as a total joint with metal components and a poly or as a hemi joint replacement with just metal components. The procedure of choice is determined based on the location and extent of the arthritis in the big toe joint. 
This joint replacement procedure has been found to have a quicker recovery than other great toe surgeries and allows pain relief and motion in the joint.
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The goal: retain your joint’s natural range of motion, alignment, and function with this outpatient procedure. Patients report quickly having no pain in the joint and can get back to regular activities in short time after surgery. 
 
Since the first use of Arthrosurface (TM) a decade ago, about 40,000 patients have received a joint replacement in their knee, shoulder, foot, ankle, and hip. Particularly younger patients could have a better experience with Arthrosurface’s innovative patient-matched geometries, which allow joints to be restored to their natural curvatures, instead of proceeding with a big toe joint fusion (1st MTPJ arthrodesis).
 
Early intervention in the joint where your condition originates and have found that Arthrosurface can be a great way to save more of our patient’s natural bone. Arthritis is the inflammation of joints as a result of degeneration of the smooth cartilage that lines the ends of bones in a joint. This degeneration of cartilage leads to painful rubbing of the bones, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, resulting in restricted movement. Total toe arthroplasty is done to relieve pain and restore normal range of motion and function of the toe and foot.

Dr. Thomas performing an Arthrosurface Total Big Toe Replacement in 2020.
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Some ​Indications for Total Toe Arthroplasty
  • Hallux rigidus (great toe arthritis)
  • Severe fracture or trauma
  • Pain and stiffness of the toe
  • Swollen and inflamed toe
  • Damaged or worn-out cartilage
  • Formation of bone spurs (bony overgrowths) on the toe joint
  • Narrowing of joint space
  • Rubbing of the raw bone ends
  • Foot pain that is interfering with daily activities
  • Failure of non-surgical approaches such as physical therapy, medications, and steroid injections to provide relief
Some Risks and Complications
Total toe arthroplasty surgery is a relatively safe procedure; however, as with any surgery, some risks and complications may occur, such as the following:  
  • Damage to surrounding tissue
  • Bone or joint irritation
  • Bone loss
  • Pain and discomfort
  • Joint stiffness
  • Infection
  • Numbness
  • Swelling and inflammation
  • Scarring and delayed healing
  • Thromboembolism or blood clots
  • Revision surgery

Procedure for Total Toe Arthroplasty
Total toe arthroplasty is performed as an open surgery under regional, twilight, or general anesthesia and usually involves the following steps:
  • An incision is made over the affected toe joint to expose the treatment area.
  • The underlying soft tissues are separated using a retractor.
  • Important nerves and vessels are identified and protected.
  • Joint surfaces are cleaned and damaged or arthritic bone is removed using special surgical instruments.
  • This process removes the deformed part of the bone and any extra bony growths (bone spurs), as well as creates a smooth surface on which the new toe implants (prosthesis) can be attached.
  • Now, artificial joint components are placed in between two sides of the damaged or arthritic toe joint. 
  • Once the artificial joint is properly fixed in place, your surgeon checks for range of motion and stability and closes the incision.
  • The artificial toe prosthesis provides a smooth surface to the joint, allowing it to move freely, relieving pain and stiffness and improving function.
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Big Toe Replacement Surgery Animation Courtesy of Arthrosurface Total Toe (TM) from Anika
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2019 Copyright www.ohiobunion.com, Dr. Randall C. Thomas Jr. DPM FACFAS at the Clintonville Dublin Southwest Foot and Ankle Group Columbus Ohio.

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  • Home
  • Dr Thomas
  • MIS BUNION
  • Before & After
  • MICA
  • MiniBunion
  • Joint Replacement
  • LAPIPLASTY
  • FAQs
  • Media
  • Insurances Accepted
  • Surgery Consult
  • Virtual Consult