Tibial sesamoidectomy of the great toe in heavy manual workers

Abstract 

Background

The sesamoids of the great toe play an integral part of the dynamic function of the foot and any disorder affecting them leads to significant disability.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of tibial sesamoidectomy in heavy manual workers.

Material and methods

Thirteen cases of tibial (medial) sesamoiditis underwent surgical excision after failure of conservative treatment. All patients were males and were heavy manual workers in steel company. The age ranged from 20 to 38 years. All cases were unilateral; six left and seven right. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically; pre- and post-operatively. Post-operative evaluation included time to return to work, pain, range of motion, deformity, subluxation of lateral sesamoid and any complication. The average follow-up period was 3.6 years (range 2–5).

Results

All patients were able to return to their heavy work at a mean time of 12.5 weeks. Twelve patients had no pain and 1 had mild pain on standing on tip toe. Two patients had limitation of motion of the great toe.

Conclusion

Medial sesamoidectomy is a successful operation in manual workers who can return to work as early as 9 weeks.

Keywords: Medial (tibial) sesamoid, Sesamoidectomy, Heavy manual workers