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War Surgery and Medicine

Operative Treatment Carried Out in 2 NZEF

Operative Treatment Carried Out in 2 NZEF

From the outset, operations were not encouraged unless they were simple in nature and likely to bring about a rapid and definite improvement in the condition, thus rendering the man of more value in the army. It was felt that any major procedure would entail a long convalescence, and almost certain down-grading, so in cases demanding such measures, down-grading without operation was the more practical procedure.

Hammer Toes: Simple arthrodesis of the prominent knuckle was the type of operation performed.

Hallux Valgus: The removal of a prominent exostosis with the overlying bunion was all that was done in the large majority of the cases. The more radical procedures were discouraged.

Hallux Rigidus: Again, operation was discouraged and down-grading adopted as necessary, the majority of the cases carrying out base duties satisfactorily.

Overlapping Toes: These were removed at the metatarso-phalangeal joint as required.

Ingrowing Toenail, as already stated, simple removal of the affected part of the nail and nail bed.

A review of cases either operated on or regraded in the 2 NZEF was made in December 1941. There had been very few cases dealt with, and it was evident that hallux valgus was not a common disability in the army. Radical operations had proved unnecessary and unsatisfactory. The lesser operations of removal of the exostosis had proved at least temporarily successful.