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Decompression Osteotomies

Precision bone-cutting procedures that relieve pressure, correct alignment, and restore function to your foot and ankle.

What is a Decompression Osteotomy?

An osteotomy is a surgical procedure where bone is cut to shorten, lengthen, or change its alignment. Decompression osteotomies specifically focus on relieving pressure on joints, nerves, or other structures by strategically removing or repositioning bone.

These procedures are used to treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions where abnormal bone position or excess pressure is causing pain and limiting function. By precisely reshaping the bone, we can redistribute weight-bearing forces and create space for compressed structures.

Conditions Treated

Decompression osteotomies may be recommended for:

  • Metatarsalgia: Painful pressure under the ball of the foot
  • Hallux Rigidus: Arthritis of the big toe joint
  • Haglund's Deformity: Bony enlargement at the back of the heel
  • Bunions: When realignment of the metatarsal is needed
  • Hammertoes: Contracted toe deformities
  • Ankle Arthritis: To offload damaged joint surfaces
  • Calcaneal Deformities: Heel bone malalignment

Types of Osteotomies

Dr. Johnson performs various osteotomy techniques depending on your specific condition:

  • Weil Osteotomy: Shortening and elevating metatarsals to relieve forefoot pressure
  • Calcaneal Osteotomy: Realigning the heel bone to correct flatfoot or high arch
  • Cheilectomy: Removing bone spurs from arthritic joints
  • Closing/Opening Wedge: Angling cuts to correct alignment
  • Akin Osteotomy: Correcting toe alignment

Benefits

  • Relieves chronic pain by addressing the underlying cause
  • Preserves joint motion when possible
  • Redistributes pressure away from painful areas
  • May prevent or delay the need for joint fusion
  • Improves foot mechanics and function

The Procedure

Decompression osteotomies are typically performed as outpatient procedures. Depending on the specific technique, incisions may range from small (minimally invasive) to larger approaches for complex corrections.

The bone is cut using precision instruments, repositioned as needed, and secured with screws, plates, or pins from industry leaders including Stryker and Enovis. Dr. Johnson uses intraoperative imaging to ensure accurate correction.

Recovery

Recovery varies based on the type and location of the osteotomy:

  • Forefoot procedures: Often allow heel-walking in a surgical shoe
  • Hindfoot procedures: May require non-weight-bearing for 4-6 weeks
  • Bone healing: Typically 6-8 weeks for initial healing
  • Full recovery: 3-6 months depending on the procedure

Dr. Johnson will provide detailed recovery instructions specific to your procedure.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Don't let foot pain limit your life. Learn how decompression osteotomy can help restore your mobility.