Flatfoot (Pes Planus) Surgery

Flatfoot is a condition in children where the foot’s arch disappears while standing but reappears when sitting or on tiptoes. Affecting both feet, it is usually painless and doesn’t interfere with daily activities or sports. While the sight of low or absent arches can be alarming, rest assured that most children outgrow flexible flatfoot without any lasting problems. Most children develop foot arches as they grow, often by age five. If arches don’t form and the condition persists into adolescence, it may cause aching pain, requiring medical consultation.

The surgical treatment for flatfoot can be divided into three. The first is arthroeresis technique which uses methods like calcaneo-stop or endorthesis to provide stability and improve foot structure. The second is osteotomies, a more advanced option for those with fully mature skeletons, involving precise adjustments to the calcaneum bone and often combined with soft tissue procedures. Though more complex, this approach can deliver exceptional short and long-term outcomes. Finally, arthrodesis (joint fusion) method, which is reserved for severe flatfoot cases, which isn’t typically recommended for flexible flatfoot in children or adolescents unless there’s an underlying medical condition.

Flatfoot in children can present with various symptoms, which may range from mild to more noticeable. The child’s feet may appear flat with little to no arch. Children may experience foot pain, especially after walking or standing for long periods. Children may complain of leg fatigue or discomfort. Difficulty with balance, tripping, or stumbling often occurs.

Flatfoot surgery is recommended for children between 9 and 12 years of age, as this is an optimal period when the foot’s growth allows structures to adapt to the correction. The surgical intervention reshapes the foot’s morphology, and as growth continues, the need for the implant diminishes, allowing it to be removed or reabsorbed.

The procedure is recommended for patients experiencing significant pain and not responding to conservative treatments. To thoroughly assess flatfoot deformity, a comprehensive examination is vital, both when the patient is sitting and standing. This is because some deformities only manifest under weight-bearing conditions.

While this age range is typical, it isn’t set in stone, some children with early foot development may need earlier treatment.

Arthroeresis, often referred to as calcaneo-stop, is a minimally invasive procedure for flatfoot correction. Flatfoot deformity can be corrected using three primary techniques: soft tissue procedures to address ligament and tendon issues, bony surgeries like osteotomies or arthrodesis to realign bones, and arthroereisis which involves using implants to support and reshape the foot. If necessary, accessory procedures like Achilles tendon lengthening or tensioning may be included to enhance results.

Flatfoot surgery takes about an hour, or 90 minutes if Achilles tendon lengthening is needed.

• Following flatfoot surgery, patients may either return home the same day or spend one night in the hospital.
• Recovery is typically quick, with patients often walking immediately post-surgery.
• The leg is secured in a splint or cast, elevated for the first two weeks, after which sutures are removed. A new cast or removable boot is then applied.
• Weightbearing on the corrected foot is strictly avoided for 6-8 weeks, progressing to partial weightbearing at 10-12 weeks, though some may require longer.
• By 12 weeks, most patients can transition to regular shoes, often with inserts or braces for support.
• Physical therapy is commonly recommended. Recovery involves months of swelling and discomfort, with full healing taking up to 1-2 years.

• Some bleeding or reddish staining on the splint near the surgical site is normal; reinforce with an ACE wrap if needed.
• Keep the leg elevated on 2-3 pillows and use ice to reduce swelling and pain.
• Protect the dressing from moisture to prevent infection.
• Therapy begins gently 4-6 weeks post-surgery, with increased activity by week 6-8.
• You can sleep in the brace.
• As a part of our commitment to offer  a well-structured after-care , we monitor our patient’s progress with follow-up appointments for up to 6 months to a year after surgery. If any issues arise, contact our clinic promptly before seeking help from other specialists, as early intervention can prevent complications.

Turkey is not only one of the top-performing countries in a wide range of medical disciplines, but it is also rich in historical heritage and known for its warm hospitality. This combination makes Turkey a unique and attractive destination for medical treatments. With advanced medical technologies and world-renowned specialists, Turkey offers a wide array of treatment options, including flatfoot surgery. Patients seeking quality care at competitive prices often find that Turkey provides a perfect blend of medical excellence and cultural charm.
Choosing to have flatfoot surgery in Turkey can bring several benefits that might even surpass the advantages of undergoing the same procedure in one’s home country. These benefits include:

• Access to state-of-the-art medical facilities.
• Experienced surgeons.
• A highly personalized patient care experience.

Moreover, the cost of medical procedures in Turkey is typically more affordable compared to many other countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality treatment without breaking the bank. With the added benefit of exploring Turkey’s rich history and culture, patients can make the most of their medical journey.

Choosing the right clinic for an operation is crucial, and with so many commercial advertisements and social media promotions, it can be a challenge to find the best one. To help you narrow down your options, it’s important to focus on a few key criteria that will guide your decision-making process. These criteria include:

• A clinic that provides you with honest, clear information about your condition and the available treatment options without any hidden agendas or commercial interests.
• A clinic that makes a concerted effort to build a rapport with the patient. This includes having a genuine interest in managing your expectations and providing personalized care based on your individual needs.
• A trustworthy clinic prioritizes patient well-being and safety.

A realistic price estimation for treatment is best done by carefully reviewing the following factors:

• Clinic reputation and reviews from past patients are essential. Look for clinics with a strong track record and positive feedback, especially from those who have undergone similar treatments.
• Accreditation and certifications from recognized medical boards also assure that the clinic adheres to international standards of care.
• It’s equally important to consider the experience and qualifications of the medical team, particularly the surgeon.
• A clinic with specialized expertise in the specific procedure you need, such as flatfoot surgery, is always a good sign.
• The patient care experience, including the communication, support, and follow-up procedures offered before, during, and after the surgery.

The above factors combined will help you make an informed decision and choose the clinic that’s right for your child’s surgery. At Prospero Medical, we strive to maintain a transparent pricing policy, ensuring that every service component is clearly outlined to help patients make informed decisions about their treatments. Our goal is to provide a realistically calculated pricing guideline that reflects the high level of medical service we offer. This includes the credentials of our experienced surgeons, the wealth of knowledge they bring to each case, and the overall quality of after-care services. We are committed to delivering professional, high-quality medical care at the most reasonable price, ensuring that our patients receive exceptional treatment throughout their surgical journey in Turkey.