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cheilectomy or not??

I am 48 yrs old and have been told that my arthritis in my big toe that has been a problem for 6 years can be treated with a cheilectomy.
Although it was stated that hopefully this will be the only surgery needed for this, it was also mentioned that it typically gives you 3-5 years.
My toe has been painful for 5 years and I have dealt with the pain by “learning to live with it”. Is it best to wait until the pain is really bad and more of a limitation before I have the cheilectomy in order to delay the clock ticking on that 3-5 years?
(Thank you!)


1 Comment found

    Vivian Abrams DPM

    9 10

    There are various degrees of structural deformity that lead to a hallux limitus/rigidus. The cheilectomy is a procedure for a less severe deformity. The doctor was being honest when he/she told you that the procedure might or might not last. The results can be influenced by (among several things) the level of activity afterward. Only you can decide whether it is the right time for you to have the surgery. Good luck.

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