Name of the Procedure:

Resection, condyle(s), distal end of phalanx, each toe Common Name: Toe Condyle Resection

Summary

A toe condyle resection is a surgical procedure where the condyle, the rounded end of a bone that forms part of a joint, at the distal end (tip) of a toe's phalanx (bone segment) is removed. It aims to alleviate pain and improve toe function.

Purpose

The procedure addresses conditions such as severe toe deformities, arthritis, or bone spurs that cause persistent pain and impede normal foot function. The goal is to relieve pain, correct deformities, and restore the toe’s functionality.

Indications

• Severe toe deformities
• Arthritic changes in the toe joints
• Persistent pain not relieved by conservative treatments
• Bone spurs causing discomfort and hindering foot movement

Preparation

Patients are usually advised to:

• Fast for at least 8 hours before the surgery
• Adjust or stop certain medications as instructed by the healthcare provider
• Undergo pre-operative assessments such as blood tests or imaging studies

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered local, regional, or general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made over the affected toe.
3. The surgeon carefully removes the condyle from the distal phalanx.
4. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.
5. The toe is typically immobilized to promote healing.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes per toe.

Setting

This surgery is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or podiatric surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Nerve damage
• Toe stiffness or limited mobility
• Risk of recurrence of the condition

Benefits

• Relief from chronic pain
• Improved toe and foot function
• Correction of deformities
• Enhanced quality of life

These benefits are often realized within a few weeks to months post-surgery depending on healing and rehabilitation progress.

Recovery

• Keep the foot elevated and limit activities for the first few days
• Pain management with prescribed medications
• Follow-up visit for suture removal and healing assessment
• Gradual return to normal activities as advised by the surgeon, typically over a few weeks to months

Alternatives

• Conservative treatments such as orthotics, physical therapy, or medications
• Other surgical options like joint fusion or joint replacement

Each alternative has its own pros and cons; conservative treatments may provide temporary relief, whereas surgical options offer more permanent solutions but come with inherent risks.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients under local anesthesia may feel some pressure but not pain. Post-surgery, patients might experience pain, swelling, and limited mobility, which should improve with pain management and proper care. Comfort measures include ice packs, elevation, and rest.