This case involves a forty-two-year-old female who suffered from synovitis of the foot. Subsequently, the patient underwent surgical treatment due to several failed attempts to treat the condition with conservative medical management. The surgery was uneventful and proceeded without complication but the patient experienced severe postoperative pain and swelling. Upon ambulation, she experienced significant hind foot pain and her gait was significantly altered compared to her status before the surgery. The surgeon noted in his reports that the patient displayed signs of a varus mal-alignment and that she may need an additional surgery to slide her heel back and close the wedge that had developed. A second opinion was sought and the recommendation by the surgeon was that the patient underwent an unnecessary calcaneal osteotomy which resulted in misalignment of the calcaneus bone and severe chronic pain.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. Was this procedure indicated given the effect on the patient's gait?
Expert Witness Response E-001037
A calcaneal osteotomy is not commonly required and the risks far outweigh the benefits in most cases of mild injury. The risks include infection, nonunion, over correction and under correction, neurovascular injury, and metal breakage if metal is used. I really cannot imagine that a sprain would be a reason for a calcaneal osteotomy. A sprain is a ligament injury and, at most, repair of the ligament would be appropriate. In the majority of cases, a sprain will heal with conservative treatment and will not require surgery.
About the author
Michael Talve, CEO
Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.
