Removal of Exostosis

Bony prominences can arise for a variety of reasons such as arthritis, inflammatory conditions, diabetes or after surgery. Usually the underlying causes of the bony spurs are treated, but in some cases patients prefer to have just the spur removed as it can cause rubbing on footwear or discomfort.

Where possible the aim would be to do this operation using a minimally invasive technique.

Typically

Success rates: a small number of patients have a complication after removal of bony bumps such as a wound problem.

In some cases removing the hardware does not fix the underlying pain, if that is believed to be the cause.

Post-operative

  • Surgery is a day-stay or overnight.

  • 0-2 weeks: elevation at home to reduce swelling

  • 2-4 weeks: walking in a comfortable trainer or moonboot

  • 4 weeks onwards: progressively returning back to normal activities.

Download post operative care guide

Risks of surgery

  • Swelling, stiffness

  • Infection

  • Wound healing problems or infection

  • Scar sensitivity

  • Ongoing pain

  • Secondary surgery