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Resection of Metatarsal Heads

Topic Overview

Resection of metatarsal heads is a commonly used surgery to correct bone deformity in toes caused by rheumatoid arthritis. A part of one of the affected toe bones, the phalangeal head, is removed so that the toe can lie flat. The affected tendons are released and attached again to conform to the new, correct toe position. The toe is then held in place with wires for several weeks. The wires can be removed in the doctor's office.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology
Last Revised June 11, 2010

Last Revised: June 11, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology

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