If you’ve suffered a metatarsal fracture and your doctor recommends surgery, you might be wondering where to get Metatarsal ORIF in Arizona. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, led by Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, we specialize in providing comprehensive foot and ankle care, including metatarsal open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). This procedure is essential for patients who need precise and stable repair of their foot fractures to ensure proper healing and function. Here, we provide detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and why our center is the best choice for your care.
What is Metatarsal ORIF?
Metatarsal ORIF is a surgical procedure to fix fractures of the metatarsal bones in the foot. These bones are crucial for walking and bearing weight, so a fracture can significantly impact mobility. The ORIF procedure involves repositioning the broken bone fragments into their normal alignment (open reduction) and securing them with surgical hardware like plates, screws, or wires (internal fixation).
Why Might You Need Metatarsal ORIF?
Metatarsal ORIF is typically recommended when a metatarsal fracture is severe, displaced, or not amenable to nonsurgical treatments such as casting or splinting. Conditions that often necessitate this surgery include:
- Multiple metatarsal fractures
- Fractures involving joint surfaces
- Open fractures (where bone pierces the skin)
- Fractures not healing with conservative treatment
Symptoms of a Metatarsal Fracture
Knowing the symptoms of a metatarsal fracture can help you seek timely treatment. Common signs include:
- Immediate pain and tenderness
- Swelling and bruising
- Inability to bear weight
- Visible deformity in severe cases
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to get a prompt evaluation from a foot and ankle specialist.
Diagnosis of Metatarsal Fractures
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we use advanced imaging techniques to diagnose metatarsal fractures accurately. This may include:
- X-rays: To visualize the bone alignment and identify fractures
- CT scans: For detailed cross-sectional images of the foot
- MRI: To assess soft tissue involvement if needed
The Metatarsal ORIF Procedure
Here’s what you can expect during the Metatarsal ORIF procedure:
- Anesthesia: You’ll receive general or regional anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free.
- Incision: A small incision is made over the fracture site.
- Reduction: The surgeon repositions the bone fragments into their correct alignment.
- Fixation: Plates, screws, or wires are used to secure the bones in place.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Recovery After Metatarsal ORIF
Recovery from Metatarsal ORIF involves several stages:
- Immediate Post-Op: You’ll need to keep weight off the affected foot using crutches or a walker.
- Follow-Up Visits: Regular check-ups to monitor healing and remove stitches.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and balance.
- Gradual Weight Bearing: Slowly reintroducing weight-bearing activities as healing progresses.
Complications and Risks
While Metatarsal ORIF is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential complications, such as:
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Hardware irritation
- Delayed bone healing or nonunion
Choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Kris A. DiNucci can significantly reduce these risks.
Why Choose the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona?
When deciding where to get Metatarsal ORIF in Arizona, consider the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona for several reasons:
- Expertise: Dr. Kris A. DiNucci is a renowned podiatric foot and ankle surgeon with extensive experience in Metatarsal ORIF.
- Patient-Centered Care: Our team focuses on providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs.
- State-of-the-Art Facility: We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best outcomes.
FAQs About Metatarsal ORIF
What is Metatarsal ORIF?
Metatarsal ORIF is a surgical procedure to fix and stabilize fractured metatarsal bones in the foot using hardware like plates, screws, or wires.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery time varies but typically ranges from 6 to 12 weeks, including periods of non-weight bearing, physical therapy, and gradual return to activities.
Is Metatarsal ORIF painful?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Post-operative pain is managed with medications.
Can I walk immediately after surgery?
No, you’ll need to avoid putting weight on the affected foot initially and use crutches or a walker as advised by your surgeon.
What are the risks of the surgery?
While generally safe, risks include infection, nerve damage, hardware irritation, and issues with bone healing.
Conclusion
Choosing where to get Metatarsal ORIF in Arizona is a crucial decision for your health and mobility. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we provide expert care under the guidance of Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment and support throughout your recovery. If you’re dealing with a metatarsal fracture, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment to discuss your surgical options. Your feet are the foundation of your body—let us help you keep them strong and healthy.
