When Surgery is Needed for Injuries and Traumas

At NY Foot Health, we know no one ever plans to have an accident or seriously injure a foot or ankle, but when it happens, there is much the podiatrist can do to surgically repair damage to the lower extremities.

From Simple to Complex

In some cases, foot surgery can repair one specific area of the foot. This could be in the case of a very bad fracture on a tendon that ruptures. When the trauma is more severe, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to regain function and stability or to reduce pain and prevent further deformity. Of course, each trauma and surgery are unique, but some elements of reconstructive surgery the podiatric surgeon may employ include:

• Tendon repair or transfer

• Bone fusion

• Bone grafting

• Joint implantation

• Osteotomy of bone (cutting bones in a precise manner)

• Skin and soft tissue repair

• Amputation

The podiatrist may use pins, wires, staples, bone screws, and other internal and external fixation devices to stabilize repairs as they heal.

Ensuring Successful Surgery

Prior to your surgery, your podiatrist will review your medical history and any medical conditions you may have. Depending on the degree of trauma, the podiatrist may order other diagnostic, imaging, and laboratory tests to better hone the surgical procedure.

Once the surgery is complete, you the patient will play a significant role in the recovery. It’s important for a successful outcome and speedy recovery that you follow all postoperative care instructions the podiatrist gives you prior to the surgery and immediately after. Your postoperative care will likely involve some amount of rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Splints, casts, surgical shoes, crutches, and canes may be utilized to aid in your recovery. The foot doctor will determine when you can bear weight on the affected foot, climb stairs and drive. The podiatrist may also prescribe physical therapy as part of the treatment plan. Although it’s tempting, don’t try to shortcut any of these post-op orders. Your podiatrist wants you to recover as quickly as possible, but also wants to ensure a successful long-term outcome to the surgery.

It’s good to have a podiatrist you see regularly before an injury occurs. If you need to find one in your area, use our online directory. To learn more about foot surgery contact us or subscribe to our free e-newsletter.