Deformed foot after poisoning
When we talk about a “foot deformity”, many people think of a congenital deformity or the consequences of an accident. Sometimes, however, the cause lies elsewhere. In this case, it was a young female patient who had suffered severe poisoning (CO). This led to damage to the tissue in the lower leg area and resulted in a pronounced pointed foot position. It was not possible to step on the foot and walking without crutches was unthinkable.
Pointed foot position: foot permanently in tiptoe position
The deformity occurred in the area of the ankle joint – due to shortening of tendons and muscles. It was a so-called pointed foot position (medically: equinus position), in which the foot remains permanently in the toe-to-toe position – similar to a ballerina, but without the possibility of relaxation. This incorrect position significantly impairs balance, makes normal walking impossible and can lead to other problems such as hip or back problems in the long term
Course of surgery and stabilization
The operation was technically demanding. In addition to correcting the deformity, it was crucial to permanently stabilize the new foot position. Soft tissue had to be loosened and repositioned, the bones brought into a physiological position and the entire foot stabilized using a so-called external fixator – a special frame that holds the foot in the desired position from the outside. The fixator allows precise correction and adjustment even during the healing process.
Result: Restoration of the ability to walk
The result of the operation was very successful. The foot could be brought into a natural position, enabling the patient to return to normal walking without aids. Thanks to the timely intervention and the correct follow-up treatment, the patient has a good chance of leading a largely unrestricted life with normal mobility.
When should you act?
Foot deformities can have many causes – accidents, neurological diseases, infections or even metabolic or toxic damage. Early diagnosis and treatment by an experienced specialist in reconstructive orthopaedics is always important. Even pronounced deformities can be corrected surgically, provided the bone and soft tissue structures are basically intact.
If you or someone close to you suffers from pain when walking, foot misalignments or other musculoskeletal problems, please contact my orthopaedic practice in Vienna. I specialize in complex cases and help my patients to get moving again.
Surgery in Vienna – Contact and appointments at www.ortho-hart.at
Medical terms used:
Pointed foot position (equinus position) – A condition in which the foot remains permanently in a pointed toe position, making normal walking difficult or impossible.
External fixator – Surgical device that is attached to the outside of the limb to hold bones in the correct position and allow fine readjustment during healing.
Reconstructive orthopaedics – Field of orthopaedics that specializes in the restoration of function and structure following accidents, operations or deformities.
