Footnotes / Blog
What is a Cheilectomy?
A cheilectomy involves the removal of bone spurs that develop on the top surface of the bones in the big toe joint due to arthritis. These bone spurs, or osteophytes, restrict motion and cause significant pain. By removing the spurs, the surgeon aims to reduce pain and restore motion in the joint, improving the patient’s quality of life.
Causes of Arthritis in the Big Toe
Arthritis in the first metatarsal phalangeal joint can develop for various reasons. In some cases, the cause may not be immediately clear. Factors such as age, genetics, joint injury, or wear and tear can contribute to the development of arthritis in the big toe.
Who Should Consider a Cheilectomy?
A cheilectomy is typically recommended for patients who have hallux rigidus or hallux limitus and have not found relief from conservative treatments. These may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, or orthotic devices. The procedure is most effective in the early to mid-stages of arthritis, where the joint damage is not severe.
Who Should Not Have a Cheilectomy?
Patients with advanced arthritis in the big toe joint, where there is significant joint destruction or deformity, may not benefit from a cheilectomy. In such cases, more invasive procedures, such as joint fusion or the implantation of a joint prosthesis, may be required. A podiatrist will assess your condition through physical examination and X-rays to determine if a cheilectomy is the right choice for you.
Recovery from a Cheilectomy
Recovery after a cheilectomy is typically fast compared to more complex surgeries for arthritis in the big toe. After the procedure:
- A soft bandage and surgical shoe will be applied.
- You can walk with the surgical shoe, but it’s important to rest and elevate your foot for 2-3 days post-surgery.
- Sutures are usually removed at your 2-week follow-up appointment.
- Afterward, you will transition to wearing a regular sneaker and begin gentle range-of-motion exercises to avoid scar tissue formation.
Most patients can return to regular activities within a few weeks, with many reporting significant improvement in pain and mobility.
Risks of a Cheilectomy
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a cheilectomy. These may include:
- Complications with anesthesia
- Infection
- Painful scarring
- Persistent or recurring pain after surgery
These risks are relatively rare, and your podiatrist will carefully assess your overall health and suitability for surgery.
Is a Cheilectomy Right for You?
If you are suffering from painful arthritis in your big toe joint and conservative treatments haven’t worked, a cheilectomy could be the solution to relieve your pain and restore motion in your big toe. At Innovative Foot and Ankle, our licensed podiatrists are experienced in evaluating and treating hallux rigidus and other foot and ankle conditions.
Visit one of our four office locations in Northern New Jersey to learn more about how a cheilectomy could improve your mobility and quality of life. We have offices in Montclair, Bayonne, Kenilworth, and Little Ferry.