Foot & Ankle

Distal Metaphyseal Metatarsal Osteotomy (DMMO) for Metatarsalgia and Plantar Callus in Diabetes Mellitus at DRHC Dubai

Overview

Distal Metaphyseal Metatarsal Osteotomy (DMMO) is an advanced, minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to alleviate pain and correct deformities in the metatarsal bones, particularly in patients suffering from metatarsalgia and plantar callus. This procedure is especially beneficial for individuals with diabetes mellitus, who often experience foot complications due to neuropathy and vascular issues. At DRHC Dubai, we provide expert care and advanced surgical solutions to address these conditions effectively.

Causes of DMMO

Patients with diabetes mellitus are prone to foot problems due to:

  • Neuropathy: Damage to nerves, leading to loss of sensation in the feet.
  • Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow, impairing healing and increasing the risk of infections.
  • Foot Deformities: Structural changes in the foot, such as claw toes or hammertoes, leading to abnormal pressure distribution.
  • High Foot Pressure: Increased pressure on the metatarsal heads, causing pain and callus formation.

DMMO-5

Symptoms Indicative of the Need for Distal Metaphyseal Metatarsal Osteotomy (DMMO)

Patients who may benefit from Distal Metaphyseal Metatarsal Osteotomy (DMMO) typically exhibit the following symptoms:

Metatarsalgia

  • Sharp or Burning Pain: Persistent pain in the ball of the foot, particularly during walking or standing.
  • Tenderness: Increased sensitivity and tenderness around the metatarsal heads.
  • Swelling: Inflammation and swelling in the affected area.
  • Aggravated Pain: Worsening of pain with physical activities or wearing certain types of shoes.

Plantar Callus

  • Thickened Skin: Development of hard, thickened skin on the sole of the foot, particularly under the metatarsal heads.
  • Painful Calluses: Calluses that cause discomfort or pain, especially when pressure is applied.
  • Ulceration Risk: In severe cases, calluses may break down into ulcers, increasing the risk of infection, particularly in diabetic patients.

Additional Symptoms in Diabetic Patients

  • Numbness or Tingling: Reduced sensation or tingling in the feet due to diabetic neuropathy.
  • Foot of Deformities: Structural changes such as hammertoes or claw toes, leading to abnormal pressure distribution.
  • Difficult Walking: Impaired mobility and difficulty performing daily activities due to pain and deformities.

These symptoms can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, making DMMO a viable surgical option to alleviate pain and correct deformities.

DMMO-1

Diagnosis of DMMO

At DRHC Dubai, our orthopedic specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation, including:

  • Medical History: Detailed assessment of the patient's diabetic condition and foot problems.
  • Physical Examination: Examination of the feet for deformities, calluses, and ulcers.
  • Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess bone structure and plan the surgical approach.

Treatment for DMMO

Initial management for metatarsalgia and plantar callus includes:

  • Offloading: Custom orthotics or special footwear to redistribute pressure away from the metatarsal heads.
  • Callus Care: Regular debridement of calluses to prevent ulceration.
  • Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation. 
  • Foot Care: Strict foot hygiene and regular monitoring to prevent complications.

When conservative measures are insufficient, DMMO is considered a definitive surgical solution.

Procedure for DMMO

The DMMO procedure at DRHC Dubai involves the following steps:

  1. Anesthesia: The surgery is performed under local or regional anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
  2. Incisions: Tiny incisions, typically less than 3mm, are made over the affected metatarsals.
  3. Osteotomy: Using specialized instruments, precise cuts are made in the distal metaphyseal region of the metatarsal bones to realign them and redistribute pressure.
  4. Fixation: The bones are stabilized using small screws or pins to ensure proper healing.
  5. Closure: Minimal suturing is required, resulting in reduced scarring and quicker recovery.

Benefits of DMMO

  • Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions lead to less tissue damage and faster healing.
  • Pain Relief: Significant reduction in pain associated with metatarsalgia and plantar callus.
  • Reduced Pressure: Improved pressure distribution on the foot, reducing the risk of recurrent calluses.
  • Faster Recovery: Shorter recovery times and quicker return to daily activities.
  • Improved Foot Function: Enhanced mobility and functionality of the foot.

Postoperative Care

Postoperative care at DRHC Dubai includes:

  • Pain Management: Medications to control pain and inflammation.
  • Wound Care: Monitoring and care of surgical incision to prevent infections.
  • Rehabilitation: Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
  • Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointment to ensure  optimal recovery and monitor diabetic foot health.

Conclusion

Distal Metaphyseal Metatarsal Osteotomy (DMMO) offers a minimally invasive solution for diabetic patients suffering from metatarsalgia and plantar callus. At DRHC Dubai, our experienced orthopedic surgeons employ state-of-the-art techniques to provide patients with effective pain relief, improved foot function, and enhanced quality of life.

bookanappointment (1)

Orthopedic Dubai / Orthopedic Clinic/Orthopedic specialist in Dubai - Are you looking for the best orthopedic doctor in Dubai? DRHC provides the best orthopedic surgeon for foot and ankle in DRHC Dubai. Call +97142798200 Now to Book Your Appointment Today.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Whatsapp