What Does MPT Surgery Mean?

The Metatarsal-phalangeal joints or MTP joints link the toes to the bones in the major part of the foot. MTP joints are prone to misalignment because they are exposed to forces and high pressure on joint, for example, poor standing posture or from misfitting footwear or from ill- distributed body weight. These can cause inflammation and deformities in joints, and lead to destroyed cartilage, tenderness and pain, and making it difficult to walk.

MTP arthrodesis refers to the surgical procedure which is used to treat the deformities associated with the MTP joints occurred due to arthritis, injury or genetic defects. This treatment procedure fuses the first metatarsal to the bone at the base of the big toe in the foot.

The MTP arthrodesis is performed under anesthesia to ensure that the patient feel less or no pain during the surgery. During the procedure, the foot is positioned in such a manner that the top of the foot is clearly visible. The affected area is then sterilized before making an incision. The incision is made above the MTP joint so that it can properly be examined. It is followed by the removal of cartilage between the bones. If there is misalignment in the toe, it is aligned properly through corrective repositioning. Metal screws or pins hold the toe together, in its correct position so that it later gets fused. If required, a bone graft can be used for helping the joint fuse. Moreover, for stabilizing the toe, a metal plate might be positioned over the joint. After the procedure, the incision is sutured or stapled. To help in easy recovery and to prevent trauma to the treated part, the foot is carefully secured with a bandage and kept within half- cast of splints for some period of time.

Since the procedure is associated with orthopedics, full recovery takes a good amount of time, anywhere between six months and nine months post the MTP Surgery.