Author: Priya
Date: 9/28/2007 2:48 pm PDT
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In an austin osteotomy for hallux valgus everything that I've read indicates that "surgeon preference" determines the type of fixation used. But, I can't find anything that explains the driving factors for "surgeon preference". Between wire, screws, pins, staples, etc... is there any evidence to indicate that any of these is better than the others for the patient? Is this a matter of surgical skill? Are there unique indications in each individual that calls for one over the others?
My reason for asking is that I've had two recommendations for an Austin osteotomy for a "moderate" (but amazingly painful) bunion, as conservative methods haven't relieved the pain. A podiatrist surgeon recommended an austin osteotomy using a permanent screw. I sought a 2nd opinion (I feel that a recommendation for surgery demands that) with an orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle surgery. The latter also recommended an austin osteotomy, but said that he'd use wire. He also indicated that I wouldn't "want" a screw in my foot, and that (eventually) I'd want/need it out. The former surgeon indicated that screw fixation was the most stable and rarely presented any problems necessitating removal.
Can anyone discuss the differences between the types of fixation, and what benefits/risks they pose for the patient? |
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