What is fallen arch surgery, and when is it needed?
Fallen arch surgery, also known as flatfoot reconstruction, is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting flatfoot deformity, a condition where the foot’s arch collapses, causing the entire sole to contact the ground. This condition can lead to pain, instability, and difficulty walking, particularly when conservative treatments fail to provide relief.
The surgery involves various techniques, depending on the severity of the deformity and the underlying cause. Common approaches include:
- Tendon Repairs or Transfers: Strengthening or replacing damaged tendons, such as the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch.
- Bone Osteotomy: Realigning bones to restore the natural arch structure.
- Fusion Surgery: Fusing specific joints to stabilize and correct the foot’s alignment in severe cases.
- Ligament Repairs: Reconstructing or tightening ligaments for added support.
Fallen arch surgery is typically needed when:
- Chronic Pain: Persistent foot, ankle, or lower leg pain significantly impacts daily activities.
- Progressive Deformity: Worsening flatfoot deformity leading to further complications, such as arthritis or joint instability.
- Failed Non-Surgical Treatments: Ineffectiveness of orthotics, physical therapy, or medication in managing symptoms.
- Severe Instability: Difficulty walking or balancing due to lack of arch support.
The surgery aims to restore the arch, alleviate pain, and improve foot function, allowing patients to regain mobility and perform daily activities comfortably. Recovery typically involves immobilization and rehabilitation to ensure successful outcomes.
What are the common causes leading to the need for fallen arch surgery?
Fallen arch surgery is typically required when flatfoot deformity progresses to the point of causing significant pain, instability, or functional limitations. Several common causes lead to the need for surgical intervention:
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)
The posterior tibial tendon supports the arch of the foot. Injury, overuse, or degeneration of this tendon can weaken its function, causing the arch to collapse and leading to progressive flatfoot deformity.
- Trauma or Injury
Severe fractures, ligament tears, or dislocations in the foot can damage the structural integrity of the arch, resulting in flatfoot that may require surgical correction.
- Congenital or Developmental Flatfoot
Some individuals are born with flatfoot or develop the condition during adolescence. In severe cases where non-surgical treatments fail, surgery may be necessary.
- Arthritis
Arthritis, especially rheumatoid or post-traumatic arthritis, can affect the joints of the foot and ankle, leading to pain, instability, and arch collapse.
- Obesity or Overuse
Excess weight or repetitive stress from activities like running can strain the arch and supporting structures, contributing to flatfoot development over time.
- Neuromuscular Disorders
Conditions like cerebral palsy or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease can impair the muscles and nerves that support the arch, leading to deformity.
- Aging and Degeneration
Age-related wear and tear on the foot’s tendons, ligaments, and joints can weaken the arch, causing it to collapse.
Surgery is considered when conservative measures, such as orthotics, physical therapy, or medications, fail to provide relief, and the condition significantly impairs quality of life or progresses to severe deformity.
What are the risks and potential complications of fallen arch surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, fallen arch surgery carries risks and potential complications. While it aims to restore the foot’s arch and improve functionality, patients should be aware of the following possible issues:
- Infection
Infections can occur at the surgical site or deeper within the tissues, requiring antibiotics or further surgical intervention.
- Blood Clots
The risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) increases with lower limb surgeries, necessitating preventive measures like blood thinners.
- Nerve Damage
Surgical manipulation can lead to nerve injuries, causing numbness, tingling, or chronic pain in the foot.
- Pain and Swelling
Post-surgical pain and prolonged swelling are common and may delay recovery.
- Delayed Healing or Nonunion
Bone-related procedures, such as osteotomies or fusions, may heal slowly or fail to unite, potentially requiring revision surgery.
- Joint Stiffness
Fusion surgeries or immobilization during recovery can lead to stiffness and reduced range of motion.
- Hardware Complications
If screws, plates, or other implants are used, they may become loose, break, or irritate surrounding tissues.
- Recurrence of Deformity
In some cases, the arch may collapse again over time, especially if the underlying cause persists.
- Functional Limitations
Post-surgery, some patients may experience reduced foot flexibility or difficulty with high-impact activities.
- Adverse Reactions
Reactions to anesthesia, medications, or materials used during surgery are possible.
Proper preoperative evaluation, skilled surgical techniques, and adherence to recovery protocols help minimize these risks.
Which is the Best Hospital for Fallen Arch Surgery in Chennai, India?
Shri Bone & Joint Clinic is the leading hospital for fallen arch surgery in Chennai, India. Our clinic has state-of-the-art facilities and a team of highly experienced orthopedic specialists in Chennai dedicated to providing the best care for foot and ankle conditions.
With over 10 years of experience, our surgeons have expertise in performing complex foot surgeries, including fallen arch reconstruction, using advanced techniques to restore the natural arch and improve functionality. Revive the best Ankle Arthroscopy in Chennai from us. We ensure personalized care for each patient, focusing on long-term outcomes and minimizing recovery time.
At Shri Bone & Joint Clinic, we prioritize patient comfort and offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Here, patients can get the best Foot and Ankle Surgery in Chennai at affordable medical charges.
Whether you suffer from posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, arthritis, or other causes of flatfoot deformity, our specialists provide accurate diagnoses and effective surgical solutions.
Trust us for expert care and a successful recovery. Schedule your appointment today to experience top-quality care for your foot and ankle concerns.
Who is the Best Doctor for Fallen Arch Surgery in Chennai, India?
Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy is the best doctor for fallen arch surgery in Chennai, India, and is renowned for his orthopedic and sports surgery expertise. With a solid academic background, he has presented scientific sessions at national and international conferences and has multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy regularly contributes articles to newspapers and magazines, promoting awareness of orthopedic health.
He was selected for the prestigious ISKSAA-BOSTAA traveling fellowship by the British Sports Trauma and Arthroscopy Society. This allowed him to train across various esteemed centers in England, including London, Sheffield, Chesterfield, and Manchester.
Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy began his career at Fortis Malar Hospital and Kamakshi Clinic, Adyar, 2015 and now practices at MGM HealthCare, Nelson Manickam Road, and Kamakshi Clinic, Adyar. He is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for foot and ankle conditions, including fallen arch surgery, ensuring the best outcomes for his patients.
How much does a Fallen Arch Surgery Cost in Chennai, India?
The cost of fallen arch surgery in Chennai, India, typically ranges from ₹60,000 to ₹2,50,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure, hospital facilities, and surgeon fees. The total cost may vary based on preoperative assessments, post-surgery rehabilitation, and any complications during recovery.
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Phone
Shri Bone & Joint clinic
#1, 2nd Main Road
Nehru Nagar
Adyar
Chennai - 20.
Phone: 044 3549 0206
MGM Healthcare
No.72,
Nelson Manickam Road,
Collectorate Colony, Aminjikarai,
Chennai - 600029.
Phone: 044 4524 2424