When my patient, who had previously undergone surgery for an accessory bone (Os tibiale externum) about a decade ago, came to see me, she was experiencing significant discomfort due to new complications. Despite the initial success of her previous surgery, which included removing the extra bone in her midfoot and calf muscle lengthening, she was now suffering from a bone spur and considerable degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon, leading to a flatter foot. This severely impacted her ability to perform daily activities and even simple walking was painful.
Imaging studies confirmed the presence of a bone spur, and an MRI showed extensive damage to her posterior tibial tendon. Initially, we attempted conservative treatments such as physical therapy and orthotic support, but unfortunately, these measures were not successful.
Given the severity of the tendon degeneration and ongoing pain, we decided that a more aggressive approach was necessary. She underwent flatfoot reconstructive surgery, which included the complete removal of the degenerated tendon, a tendon transfer to restore function, a second calf muscle lengthening to address recurring issues, and a heel bone cut (osteotomy) to realign her foot properly.
Recovery from such an extensive procedure was challenging and required her to spend significant time off her feet to allow for proper healing of the bone and soft tissues. However, with a dedicated postoperative regimen and a appropriate course of physical therapy, she made a remarkable recovery. Today, she is not only walking without pain but also engaging in high-impact activities like pickleball.
Her journey underscores the importance of adapting medical interventions over time to address evolving conditions. It also highlights the critical role of comprehensive surgical planning and postoperative care in achieving optimal outcomes for complex foot conditions.
If you’re experiencing foot pain or complications from previous surgeries, don’t wait for your quality of life to deteriorate further. Schedule a consultation to explore your surgical and non-surgical options, and take the first step toward a more active and pain-free life.