Expertise in complex foot reconstruction
Foot reconstruction surgeries are done in a variety of complex foot conditions or injuries. One of the most common includes Lisfranc (midfoot) injuries, when bones in the midfoot are broken or ligaments that support the midfoot are torn. The severity of the injury can vary from simple to complex, involving many joints and bones in the midfoot. In this midfoot region, five long bones (metatarsals) extend to the toes and the bones are held in place by ligaments that stretch across and down the foot. However, there is no connective tissue holding the first metatarsal to the second metatarsal, and a twisting fall can break or shift these bones out of place.
Treatment for a Lisfranc injury depends on how severe the injury is. Nonoperative treatment options are available. Surgical treatment is typically elected in individuals where instability is present. Surgery involves repositioning the bones in their anatomic positions and fixing them in place, generally with screws. Various methods of internal fixation can be used to fix Lisfranc injuries. Recovery with or without surgery generally requires a period of non-weight-bearing in a cast, followed by progressive weight-bearing in an aircast boot and a physical therapy program.
The Mass General Brigham team focuses on alleviating pain and restoring function in patients with foot sports injuries, arthritis, trauma, deformities, tendonitis and other foot and ankle conditions. Foot reconstruction is designed to restore the function and appearance of the foot. It addresses acute and long-standing problems in foot bones, joints, muscles, tendons and the skin. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists, podiatrists, physical therapists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, inpatient nurses, fellows and residents works together to tailor a treatment and rehabilitation plan that works for you, allowing you to return to activity as quickly and safely as possible.
Pioneering foot care and surgical research
The Mass General Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL) is a groundbreaking initiative focused on pioneering breakthroughs in foot and ankle research. FARIL focuses on both common and complex foot and ankle injuries, including fifth metatarsal fractures, syndesmotic instability and Lisfranc injuries.
Today, researchers at FARIL are pioneering new imaging techniques to create a dynamic picture of the foot and ankle. Emerging technology like portable ultrasound will allow physicians to accurately diagnose the injuries that would have previously been difficult, or even impossible, to recognize without surgery. We are developing new treatment methods and testing new instruments like fracture fixation tools and Achilles tendon repair devices. New arthroplasty techniques and equipment are being tested with the goal of improving and perfecting surgical techniques. We are studying biomechanics to minimize surgical invasiveness, improve surgical technique and reduce recovery time. These are just some of the ways FARIL leads the way in foot and ankle care and research.
Our foot surgery team
Meet Mass General Brigham's multidisciplinary team of foot and ankle clinicians.
Foot surgery for international patients
Each year, thousands of patients from more than 120 countries travel to Mass General Brigham for medical care, second opinions and treatments unavailable anywhere else in the world.
Mass General Brigham orthopedic teams are experienced in caring for complex foot and ankle patients who are traveling great distances to our hospitals in Boston. Your medical team here and our international patient services team will help you prepare for and plan the appropriate amount of time to stay in Boston before and after your treatment or surgery. During this recovery time in Boston, our clinical team will monitor your healing and medications and prepare you for the rehabilitation stage of your care. Your Mass General Brigham care team will work with you and your providers at home to ensure you receive the properly scheduled follow-up appointments and a rehab physical therapy program that is right for you.
Many of our international patients have questions about everything from travel and lodging to scheduling appointments. Our international patient services team is here to help. We look forward to making your Mass General Brigham experience as healing and stress-free as possible.
