MIDfoot Fusion surgery
What is midfoot fusion surgery and why is surgery required some of the time?
Midfoot fusion surgery is used to treat painful arthritis, instability or deformity of the midfoot when other treatments have failed. The midfoot includes the bones that help support the arch of the foot. When these joints are damaged, they can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking. Fusion joins the painful bones together, eliminating movement at those joints to reduce pain and restore a stable, pain-free foot.
What does the operation involve?
- The surgery is usually performed as a day case under general or regional anaesthetic.
- The affected midfoot joint surfaces are carefully exposed and cartilage is removed.
- The bones are realigned into a natural position for walking.
- Metal screws, plates or other devices are used to hold the bones in place while they fuse (grow together).
- Over time, the bones heal solidly to eliminate painful motion.
The exact joints fused depend on where the arthritis or instability is located (e.g., naviculocuneiform, tarsometatarsal joints).
Midfoot Arthritis Treatment & Fusion Surgery | Liverpool
Consent Form For Midfoot Fusion (docx)
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Post Surgical Recovery
Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)
- Your foot will be in a cast or rigid boot to protect the fusion.
- Non-weight-bearing with crutches is commonly advised initially.
- Elevation is important to reduce swelling.
- Stitches are usually removed at 10–14 days.
2-6 weeks after surgery
- Continue in a cast or boot as advised by your surgeon.
- Gentle movement of the toes and non-weight-bearing or heel weight-bearing exercises are encouraged.
6-12 weeks after surgery
- A x-ray will be performed to check on fusion progress.
- Transition to protected weight-bearing (partial → full) in a boot depending on fusion progress.
- Physiotherapy usually starts to maintain strength above the ankle and prevent stiffness.
Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)
- Most patients progress to full weight-bearing without a boot as fusion consolidates.
- Comfortable, supportive footwear is recommended.
- Walking distances and daily activities increase gradually.
- Continued improvement in comfort and function.
- Some swelling may persist, especially after prolonged standing or activity.
- Most patients return to daily activities with improved comfort.
Outcomes
Before Surgery
- Pain in the midfoot with walking or weight-bearing
- Difficulty wearing regular shoes
- Swelling or stiffness across the arch
- Reduced activity levels due to discomfort
After Surgery
- Significant reduction or elimination of pain
- Improved midfoot stability and alignment
- Better walking comfort
- Ability to wear supportive footwear comfortably
- Durable long-term outcome in most patients
Long term success
- Most patients achieve stable bone fusion and lasting pain relief.
- Adjacent joints can adapt well, though a small percentage may experience increased stress in the long term.
- Supportive shoes and gradual activity progression improve outcomes.
Contact Us
Contact to arrange an appointment
Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)
Cost -
Initial consultation - £250
Follow-up - £150
Prof Lyndon Mason
Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK
Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<
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