MedShape, Inc.

Charcot foot is a rare condition that affects people with peripheral neuropathy or who suffer from diabetes mellitus. The condition affects the joints, bones and soft tissues of the ankle or foot; whereby,the bones become brittle and prone to fractures. If not caught and treated in the early stages of development, patients suffer foot collapse and deformation. These deformities can lead to the development of pressure sores or ulcers in the ankle or foot. These open wounds can, in turn, become infected, eventually leading to amputation. Surgery is used as a last resort and is only recommended for patients with severe foot or ankle deformities and are at high risk of developing foot ulcers. The goals of the surgery are to stabilize the fractured bones and allow them to heal properly. The surgery involves realigning and stabilizing the bones to encourage healing in a position that allows the patient to weight-bear. In order to achieve healing and keep stable, continuous compression mu...