Dr Timoth Young, Board Certified Foot Surgeon talks about Lapidus and Lapiplasty Fixation: Advancements in Foot and Ankle Surgery Part 1

Introduction: Foot and ankle disorders can significantly impact a person's quality of life, affecting their ability to walk, stand, and perform daily activities. Over the years, surgical techniques and technologies have evolved to address these issues effectively. One of the notable advancements in foot and ankle surgery is the Lapidus and Lapiplasty fixation procedures. In this blog, we'll delve into what these procedures are, how they work, and their benefits for patients.

Lapidus Fixation: The Lapidus procedure, also known as the first tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint arthrodesis, is a surgical technique designed to correct deformities in the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform bones of the foot. This procedure is commonly used to treat conditions such as hallux valgus (bunions) and hypermobility of the first TMT joint. The primary goal of the Lapidus procedure is to achieve stability in the joint, alleviate pain, and improve the alignment of the foot.

During the Lapidus procedure, a surgeon makes an incision on the top of the foot near the first TMT joint. The joint is then realigned, and screws or other fixation devices are used to hold the bones in their corrected positions. Over time, the bones fuse together, creating a stable and properly aligned joint. This fusion eliminates the pain associated with joint movement and provides long-lasting relief.

Lapiplasty Fixation: The Lapiplasty procedure is a modern advancement in foot surgery that specifically targets bunions by addressing the root cause of the deformity. Unlike traditional bunion surgeries that focus on removing the bony bump, the Lapiplasty procedure aims to correct the misalignment of the metatarsal bone responsible for the bunion formation. This technique not only provides a more aesthetic result but also reduces the risk of bunion recurrence.

During the Lapiplasty procedure, a surgeon makes a precise cut in the metatarsal bone to realign it to its proper position. Specialized instrumentation is used to stabilize the bone, and fixation plates and screws are inserted to secure the corrected alignment. This approach allows patients to bear weight on the treated foot shortly after surgery, resulting in a faster recovery compared to traditional methods.

If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, give us a call today at 425-391-8666 or make an appointment online.