Mid foot fusion

Posted , 4 users are following.

Had a mid foot fusion over 2 weeks ago and had my stitches out and cast applied yesterday. I have my foot elevated very high but as soon as I put it down my toes go dark dusky purple until I put them back up again. The cast doesn't feel overly tight and I have no pain or throbbing in my calf and my toes are still warm. Any advice please. Thank you.

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Posted

    Keep it elevated but if ur still worried or unsure contact hospital for advice it won't do any harm and may reassure you . I had to phone fracture clinic for advice and they were very helpful .hope it eases off soon 
  • Posted

    The reason that your toes go dusky purple is that there is venous engorgement.

    This is demonstrated by the ready reversal by elevating the foot. This engorgement is associated with prevention of the "calf pump" which returns venous blood to the general circulation. The venous pump is immobilised by below knee casts, "moon boots" and similar, and is one reason that high casts and boots are to be condemned when applied unnecessarily. A below knee cast is unnecessary in the management of mid foot fusions.

    • Posted

      Thank you for your replies.

      is there anything I can do to keep myself safe from DVT please?

      thank you.

  • Posted

    I do not believe that the "dusky toes" are an ominous sign that DVT might develop.

    However, depending on your age and other factors you might be at risk of a DVT. Keeping the limb elevated might help prevent a DVT, but even that is uncertain.

    Do you have an elasticised stocking under your cast? Are you taking short chain heparin?

    If not, you should discuss your fear with your surgeon.

    (This is yet another reason why below knee casts need to be applied judiciously).

    In any event my best wishes - if you feel that I can help in any other way, please write...

    • Posted

      Thank you very much for your help.

      i am having Dalteparin injections daily, but have no TED stocking on either leg which I thought was strange.

      I will never take my mobility for granted ever again.

      kind regards. Michelle.

    • Posted

      It is absolutely normal to have purple, blue and on occasions white and cold or hot feet it is all to do with the circulation trying to return to normal. Don,t worry.

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