From the Research
The Kidner procedure is a surgical treatment for a symptomatic accessory navicular bone in the foot, involving removal of the accessory navicular and reattachment of the posterior tibial tendon to the main navicular bone, as described in studies such as 1 and 2. This procedure is typically performed when conservative treatments like rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, orthotics, and physical therapy have failed to relieve pain. The surgery aims to eliminate the pain caused by the accessory bone, which often manifests as a painful bump on the inner side of the foot that can be aggravated by activity and footwear. Some studies, such as 3, have explored the use of flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer in conjunction with the Kidner procedure for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, highlighting the complexity and variability of surgical approaches for this condition. Recovery generally takes 6-8 weeks, with patients initially using crutches and wearing a cast or boot, followed by physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion, as noted in various studies including 2 which discussed the use of Mitek bone anchors for secure plication of the posterior tibial tendon. The procedure is named after Dr. Albert Kidner who described it in the 1920s, and while generally successful in relieving pain, patients should understand that the surgery involves a significant recovery period and temporary activity limitations, with potential for recurrent pain or need for revision surgery as discussed in 1. Key points to consider include:
- The Kidner procedure is a surgical option for symptomatic accessory navicular bone
- It involves removal of the accessory navicular and reattachment of the posterior tibial tendon
- Recovery takes approximately 6-8 weeks with initial use of crutches and a cast or boot
- Physical therapy follows to restore strength and range of motion
- The procedure has been in use since the 1920s and is generally successful but involves significant recovery and potential for complications.