Brachymetatarsia


by Marie Williams, DPM
Director Podiatric Medical Education
Parkway Regional Medical Center
North Miami Beach, Florida

Young patients with brachymetatarsia go to great lengths to conceal what they perceive to be a personal disfigurement. They tend to avoid water activities, open toe shoes and even an evaluation by a physician because they do not want to draw attention to their deformity. Brachymetatarsia often poses no more than a cosmetic concern. However, upon occasion, it can present with a functional component such as a metatarsalgia. Routine surgical repair of Hallux Valgus ameliorates cosmetic and functional limitations associated with the deformity. Brachymetatarsia often requires a similarly faceted approach. However, this entity is generally not addressed surgically, as the common procedures are perceived to be inherently complex. Dr. Marie Williams discusses the use of mini external fixation devices and callus distraction techniques to facilitate the lengthening component of this surgery. With increased awareness of the technology, surgeons will be more apt to undertake these types of repairs.

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