What is a Weil Osteotomy?
A Weil osteotomy is a type of foot surgery performed to treat claw toe deformity and relieve pain caused by abnormal pressure or joint instability in the lesser toes (usually the second toe). In this procedure, the surgeon shortens the metatarsal bone—one of the long bones in the foot—by cutting and repositioning it, allowing the toe to lie flatter and more naturally aligned.
Claw toe can cause discomfort during walking, lead to corns or calluses, and interfere with footwear. Weil osteotomy can correct the alignment, relieve pain, and improve toe function.
Preparation
Before surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will:
- Perform a physical exam and evaluate the toe’s alignment and flexibility
- Take X-rays or imaging to assess joint health and bone structure
- Review your medical history and any medications you’re taking
- Discuss anesthesia options (typically regional block with sedation)
- Provide preoperative instructions, including fasting and medication adjustments
Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure and prepare for a period of non-weight-bearing recovery.
Accessing the Joint
Once the patient is anesthetized and the surgical site is sterilized:
- A small incision is made on the top of the foot over the affected metatarsal
- The surgeon carefully exposes the joint and metatarsal bone
- Special instruments are used to protect surrounding soft tissue and tendons
Shortening the Bone
The core of the Weil osteotomy involves:
- Making a precise horizontal cut in the metatarsal bone
- Sliding the head of the bone backward to shorten its length
- Repositioning the toe joint into a more natural alignment
- Fixing the bone in place using small screws or pins
This shortening helps relieve the abnormal pressure that causes the toe to curl or elevate.
End of Procedure
Once the desired alignment is achieved:
- The surgeon verifies toe flexibility and positioning
- The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures or staples
- A dressing or surgical shoe is applied to protect the foot
The patient is moved to recovery, monitored briefly, and usually discharged the same day.
FAQs
See a doctor if you notice your toe becoming stiff, bent, painful, or if it’s affecting your ability to walk or wear shoes. Early intervention can help avoid surgery.
Yes, absolutely. A visual animation can help patients better understand claw toe deformity and how a Weil osteotomy corrects it. Linking to the animation here would be very helpful for patient education.
The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many toes are being treated and the complexity of the deformity.
– Initial recovery takes 6–8 weeks
– Patients are often in a surgical shoe or boot and may need to limit weight bearing for 2–4 weeks
– Full recovery, including return to regular footwear and activity, can take 3–4 months
– Physical therapy may be recommended for optimal results
Yes, it’s considered an effective treatment for claw toe and associated metatarsalgia. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved toe alignment and function.
Like any surgical procedure, risks include:
– Infection
– Stiffness or floating toe (where the toe doesn’t touch the ground properly)
– Nerve irritation
– Nonunion or delayed healing
– Recurrence of deformity (in rare cases)
Your surgeon will discuss these risks and how they are minimized with careful technique and post-op care.
