The extra accessory navicular bone is on the inside of the foot, just above the arch. Some people have it and don't have any problems with it, but for others, it can cause pain and other problems. When less invasive treatments don't help, surgery on the accessory navicular bone may be suggested.
In this article, we'll talk about the different parts of this surgery, such as what to expect before and after the procedure, how long it takes to recover, any possible complications, and the long-term results.
Learning About the Accessory Navicular Bone and Its Symptoms
The accessory navicular bone is a small, extra bone that grows near the navicular bone in the foot. It is also called the os navicular accessorium or the os tibiale externum. It is a congenital condition, which means that it was there when the person was born.
It can happen along with other foot problems and not cause any problems, but it can also lead to a condition called accessory navicular syndrome. Symptoms of this syndrome include pain, swelling, tenderness, and trouble wearing certain kinds of shoes.
Treatments that don't involve surgery for Accessory Navicular Syndrome
Doctors usually suggest less invasive ways to treat the symptoms of accessory navicular syndrome before they recommend surgery. Some of these are rest, ice, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and foot supports called orthotics. In some cases, these treatments can help ease pain and discomfort so that people can get back to their normal lives.
Reasons for Having Surgery on the Accessory Navicular Bone
If conservative treatments don't help enough or if the symptoms get worse, surgery might be an option. The decision to have surgery is often based on how bad the symptoms are, how they affect the person's daily life, and how healthy the person is overall.
Surgery is usually only done when all other options have been tried and the symptoms have a big impact on the patient's quality of life.
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Getting ready for surgery
An orthopedic surgeon will do a full evaluation of a patient before they have surgery on an accessory navicular bone. The surgeon will look at the patient's medical history and do a physical exam.
He or she may also order imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to see how much the accessory navicular bone is involved and if there are any foot deformities.
Types of Surgery on the Navicular Bone
There are a few ways to fix accessory navicular syndrome through surgery, but the most common way is to take out the accessory navicular bone. Most of the time, the surgery is done under general anesthesia. To get to the bone, the surgeon makes a cut over the affected area.
Once the bone is found, it is carefully removed, and if there are any other problems with the foot, they are fixed as well. In some cases, the surgeon might use screws or other devices to hold the foot in place while it heals.
The healing process
After surgery, patients will be told to put ice on the foot and keep it raised to reduce swelling. They will also need to use crutches or a walker so they don't have to put weight on the foot that was operated on at first.
Recovery time is different for each person, but it usually takes a few weeks for the cut to heal and the soft tissues to get back to normal. During this time, you may be told to go to physical therapy to help your foot and ankle get stronger and more flexible again.
Problems and risks that could happen
As with any surgery, there are some risks with surgery on the accessory navicular bone. There could be an infection, nerve damage, a blood clot, or a bad reaction to the anesthesia.
It is important for patients to carefully follow their surgeon's post-surgery instructions and to tell their doctor right away about any strange symptoms or problems.
Effects on the Long Term
The long-term effects of surgery for an extra navicular bone are generally good, with most patients feeling less pain and having better foot function. After a successful recovery, people can slowly get back to their regular activities and sports, but they may need to be careful with high-impact activities.
Follow-up appointments with an orthopedist are necessary to check on the healing process and make sure the foot is working well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is an accessory navicular bone?
A1: The accessory navicular bone is an extra bone located on the inner side of the foot, just above the arch.
Q2: What is an accessory navicular syndrome?
A2: Accessory navicular syndrome is a condition where the presence of the accessory navicular bone leads to pain, swelling, and discomfort in the foot.
Q3: What are conservative treatments for accessory navicular syndrome?
A3: Conservative treatments include rest, ice, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and orthotic devices.
Q4: When is accessory navicular bone surgery recommended?
A4: Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when symptoms significantly impact daily life.
Q5: What is the surgical procedure for accessory navicular bone surgery?
A5: The most common approach is removing the accessory navicular bone through an incision in the affected area.
Q6: How long is the recovery process after surgery?
A6: The recovery period varies, but it generally takes several weeks for the incision to heal and for patients to regain full foot function.
Q7: Are there any risks associated with the surgery?
A7: Yes, like any surgery, accessory navicular bone surgery carries risks such as infection, nerve damage, and blood clot formation.
Q8: What are the long-term outcomes after surgery?
A8: Most patients experience a significant reduction in pain and improved foot function after successful surgery and recovery.
Q9: Can I resume regular activities after surgery?
A9: Yes, after a successful recovery, patients can gradually return to regular activities and sports, following their orthopedic's guidance.
Q10: How can I ensure a successful recovery?
A10: Follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions, attend physical therapy if recommended, and attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
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