Minimally Invasive Cheilectomy Surgery for Hallux Rigidus

What Is a Dorsal Cheilectomy?

A cheilectomy is a surgical procedure to remove bone spurs and clean the joint surface of the first metatarsophalangeal (1st MTP) joint, commonly affected by hallux rigidus (big toe arthritis).

Using a minimally invasive technique, the surgeon makes small incisions to access the joint, remove excess bone, and restore smooth motion in the toe, all with less tissue disruption than traditional open surgery.

Who Is a Candidate for Cheilectomy Surgery?

This procedure is ideal for patients with:

  • Mild to moderate arthritis in the big toe
  • Stiffness or limited range of motion
  • Pain from dorsal bone spurs while walking or wearing shoes
  • No significant joint space collapse or deformity

Early intervention with a cheilectomy can relieve pain and preserve joint mobility, helping many patients avoid more extensive surgery.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Cheilectomy

  • Small incisions, minimal scarring
  • Less postoperative pain and swelling
  • Preserves joint motion
  • Quicker return to normal activities
  • Outpatient procedure with local anesthesia in many cases

What to Expect During and After Surgery

  • Procedure time: Typically under 1 hour
  • Weight-bearing: Usually allowed within days, often in a surgical shoe
  • Recovery timeline: Most patients return to normal walking within 3–6 weeks
  • Physical therapy: May be recommended to maximize mobility and reduce stiffness

Is a Cheilectomy Right for Me?

If you're dealing with painful big toe stiffness that hasn’t improved with non-surgical treatment, a minimally invasive cheilectomy may be a strong option to restore mobility and comfort, especially if the joint is not yet severely arthritic.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Our board-certified foot and ankle surgeons specialize in the latest minimally invasive procedures for hallux rigidus. Contact us to learn if cheilectomy is right for you.