Our Summary

This research paper looks at the best way to insert screws during a specific type of foot surgery called subtalar fusion. The researchers tested three different methods of screw insertion to see how they affected the stress and strength of the joint. They found that a certain method, called lateral-medial antiparallel screw insertion, was the best option.

They then tested this method on 48 patients over a four-year period, and found that it was successful in all cases. Patients reported less pain and better foot function after the surgery, and the fusion of the joint was confirmed by X-rays or CT scans.

The researchers concluded that this type of screw insertion is safe, accurate, and effective. It not only provides a good balance of stress and strength in the joint, but it’s also easy to perform during surgery and results in few complications afterwards. Therefore, they recommend that this method be used more widely in this type of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the most effective method of screw insertion in subtalar fusion surgery according to the research?
  2. What were the results when the lateral-medial antiparallel screw insertion method was tested on patients?
  3. Why do researchers recommend the lateral-medial antiparallel screw insertion method for subtalar fusion surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing joint fusion surgery to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including physical therapy exercises to help maintain joint mobility and strength. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor the progress of the fusion and address any concerns promptly. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that put excessive stress on the joint can help ensure successful fusion and long-term joint function.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended joint fusion are those who have severe arthritis, deformities, instability, or severe pain in the joint that cannot be relieved with conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. Joint fusion is often considered when other surgical options, such as joint replacement, are not suitable for the patient due to factors such as poor bone quality, previous failed surgeries, or high physical demands on the joint.

In the case of subtalar fusion, patients with severe subtalar arthritis, hindfoot deformities, or chronic pain in the subtalar joint may be recommended for surgery. Subtalar fusion is a procedure that involves fusing the subtalar joint in the foot to reduce pain and improve stability.

Overall, joint fusion is recommended for patients who have exhausted nonsurgical treatment options and continue to experience significant pain and limitations in function due to their joint condition. It is important for patients to discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine if joint fusion is the most appropriate treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before the joint fusion surgery:

  1. Patient experiences chronic pain and reduced mobility in the affected joint.
  2. Patient consults with a healthcare provider and undergoes diagnostic tests to determine the extent of joint damage.
  3. Healthcare provider recommends joint fusion surgery as a treatment option.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and preparation for surgery.

After the joint fusion surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgery, during which screws are inserted using the lateral-medial antiparallel method.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room and then transferred to a hospital room for post-operative care.
  3. Patient receives pain management and physical therapy to aid in the recovery process.
  4. Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues with outpatient rehabilitation.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments to monitor the fusion of the joint and assess overall recovery progress.
  6. Patient experiences improved foot function, reduced pain, and increased mobility in the joint after successful fusion.
  7. Patient continues with long-term follow-up care to ensure the success of the joint fusion surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of joint fusion and why is it recommended for my specific condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with joint fusion surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after joint fusion surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery, and if so, what does that involve?
  5. How successful is joint fusion surgery in relieving pain and improving joint function in the long term?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before undergoing joint fusion surgery?
  7. What is the expected outcome of joint fusion surgery in terms of pain relief and joint stability?
  8. How many surgeries of this type have you performed and what is your success rate?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
  10. How long will the screws or hardware used in the fusion surgery remain in place, and will they need to be removed in the future?

Reference

Authors: Yuan CS, Sun JJ, Wu SY, Jing GQ, Xie MM, Tang KL. Journal: J Orthop Surg Res. 2019 Jan 14;14(1):20. doi: 10.1186/s13018-018-1034-4. PMID: 30642345