Big toe joint replacement - is fusion the answer?

[kathleen-l]

Has anyone had a big toe joint replacement that has gone wrong? Mine has and I am now faced with - I think the only option - a fusion. I don't want to have this done unless it is the only option and just wondered if anyone else has gone through something similar?

[Titchou]

That is the only option after the implant.

[jdm1]

Depending on your implant there is one other option. I was given this option after my implant failed, but I chose the fusion. My pod said that he could remove half of the implant and that might (might being the key word) free up some movement. However, if that didn't work, I would have to have the fusion and it would have to have been sooner rather than later. I decided that I couldn't go into a third surgery (the implant was surgery 2) knowing that it might not work and I would end up with a fusion anyway.

From my experience, the fusion was the best thing that I did. I had a bone gradt from my hip. The hip healing was almost worse than the foot. I couldn't sit by myself for a couple of days.

If I can answer any ?'s let me know.

Jennie

[debbie g]

toe fusion is the final. your toe will never bend and will stick up. you will never be able to wear high heels. if you are in severe pain, have the toe fusion. i did and iam 51. recovery takes a long time, but i think in the end it is worth it. if you are not in pain, dont do it.

[LiseD]

Hi Debbie,
I had a 1st metatarsal joint replacement in late May this year and still can't
bend my joint and am still in pain when I walk. My doctor wants to take out
the implant and fuse the joint, but I am very nervous about it. How long did
it take to be able to walk, wear shoes, what height of heel can you wear?
I am 53 and very active - would like to be able to play tennis etc. Basically my sport is ridng horses (competition dressage) which isn't too bad on my foot, but wearing boots is painful at present.