From the Research
After MTP (metatarsophalangeal) fusion, bone healing progresses through several distinct stages, including the inflammatory phase, soft callus phase, hard callus phase, and remodeling phase, as described in the study by 1. The stages of bone growth after MTP fusion can be outlined as follows:
- Inflammatory phase: begins immediately after surgery and lasts about one week, characterized by blood clot formation and the migration of inflammatory cells to the fusion site.
- Soft callus phase: occurs 2-3 weeks after surgery, where fibroblasts and chondroblasts form a cartilaginous matrix between the bone ends.
- Hard callus phase: occurs over the next 3-6 weeks, during which osteoblasts convert the soft callus to woven bone.
- Remodeling phase: begins around 6-8 weeks post-surgery and can continue for 6-12 months, as the woven bone is gradually replaced by stronger lamellar bone and the fusion site is reshaped according to mechanical stresses. Weight-bearing is typically restricted during the early phases, with gradual progression from non-weight-bearing to partial and then full weight-bearing as healing advances, as noted in the study by 2. Proper immobilization, nutritional support, and following post-operative protocols are essential for optimal bone healing and successful fusion outcomes. It is worth noting that the study by 3 discusses the role of bisphosphonates in bone repair, but this is not directly relevant to the stages of bone growth after MTP fusion. Similarly, the studies by 4 and 5 discuss the use of ibuprofen and acetaminophen for pain management, but do not provide information on the stages of bone growth after MTP fusion. Therefore, the most relevant information for this question comes from the study by 1, which provides a clear outline of the stages of bone growth after MTP fusion.