Drop Foot Surgery
Tendon Transfer
Tendon Transfer can be carried out for both flat foot, high arched foot, unstable ankles and drop foot.As part of a flat foot corrective procedure, the damaged posterior tibial tendon, which attaches the muscle in the inner calf muscle to the bone on the inner side of your foot, is replaced by a transfer of the flexor digitorum longus tendon, which is found on the inner side of your leg.For dropped foot and high arched feet with unstable ankles, a range of tendon transfers are performed dependent on case by case.As part of the flat foot correction when the tibialis posterior tendon fails, an incision is made from the inner ankle so both tendons are exposed. The damaged section of the posterior tibial tendon is removed and replaced with a section of the flexor digitorum longus tendon, this is then sutured into place. The procedure is often carried out alongside a calcaneal osteotomy, gastrocnemius recession or midfoot fusion.You will require a cast for the first two weeks and will then start to use an Aircast boot for a further four weeks. At two weeks postoperative you should be able to return to sedentary work. Return to sports typically takes 6 months.Drop Foot: Frequently Asked Questions
Drop foot is when you can’t lift your foot properly when you walk. Surgery moves a working muscle to lift the foot, or sometimes fuses the ankle for stability. It helps you walk better and stop tripping.
If the nerve damage is temporary, you might improve with physio and a brace. But if it’s permanent damage, surgery is the best way to get your foot working properly again.
When conservative treatment hasn’t helped and you’re struggling with walking, or when the damage causing the drop foot is unlikely to get better on its own.
Tendon transfer moves a working muscle to do the job of lifting your foot. Fusion locks the ankle in place. Tendon transfer is usually the first choice because it restores active movement.
About 70-85% of people see real improvement and can walk better. Most importantly, they stop tripping as much. Results depend on your specific situation and doing your physio.
Initial recovery is 3-4 weeks, then you’ll be carefully weight-bearing from 4-6 weeks, and most people get back to normal activities in 3-4 months.
Ask about success rates for your condition, what improvement you can realistically expect, if you’ll still need a brace, and how much physio you’ll need after surgery.
