Minneapolis Midfoot Fusion Attorney
Technically, midfoot is where the forefoot bones (metatarsals) connect to the smaller midfoot bones (cunieforms). Midfoot fusion (arthrodesis) may be necessary if the bones of the midfoot have been fractured or crushed in a high impact truck or car accident, damaging cartilage and allowing arthritis to develop. When arthritis develops in one or more of the foot joints, balance is difficult and walking may be painful.
The doctor will perform some tests to determine if midfoot fusion is recommended. One of the tests is a gait analysis. The gait analysis shows how the bones in the leg and foot line up with walking, measures stride, and tests the strength of the ankles and feet. Weight-bearing x-rays are invaluable in diagnosing the severity of the arthritis. An x-ray can show changes in the spacing between bones or in the shape of the bones.
With fusion, the bones of the joint bond completely to make one continuous bone. The goal of midfoot fusion is to improve the position of the forefoot against the hindfoot, stabilizing the joint and reducing pain. The technique involves removal of articular cartilage from between the joints and then using pins, screws, or plates to hold the joint firmly together until the bones fuse. The bone should start to grow and fuse in the first 6-12 weeks, but it takes 6-12 months for the fusion to be complete.
Many victims of Lisfranc fractures opt for midfoot fusion, even though there are risks, because the chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of balance is so debilitating. The main risks are:
- infection
- deep vein thrombosis (vein clot)
- swelling
- malposition / deformity
- nonunion
- nerve damage
- development of arthritis in adjacent joints
Minneapolis Midfoot Fusion Attorney
If your injury and resultant midfoot fusion was due to another’s negligence, you need legal representation to secure fair compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact a Minneapolis Midfoot Fusion Attorney at 612-362-0000. Our consultation are free — you pay nothing unless we win your case.
