Zeehan S. Husain, DPM
Charles G. Kissel, DPM
Michael S. Schey, DPM
Angela
Stoutenburg, DPM
Board
certified by the
American Board of
Podiatric Surgery.
Foot and Ankle Surgery
Podiatric surgery is surgery
performed on the foot, ankle, or lower leg by highly qualified podiatric
surgeons who are trained specifically to deal with these problems.
The problems may result from birth defects, heredity, trauma,
arthritis, physical stress, improper shoes, muscle and joint imbalances,
and even the hard surfaces on which you walk.
The important fact to remember is that podiatric surgeons are the
physicians most thoroughly trained to manage these problems.
The podiatric surgeons at the Rochester Center for Foot and Ankle
Surgery are well-trained in podiatric foot and ankle surgery.
In fact, they are involved in training podiatric residents,
visiting orthopedic residents from Europe, and medical residents.
Podiatric surgery differs from
other surgical procedures because of the special characteristics and
functions of the lower extremity. In
addition to supporting your weight, the foot is subjected to repeated
abuse with each step. Providing
immediate treatment and preserving the best function possible are key
factors in podiatric surgery. Research
conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association reveals that more
than 70 percent of all people in the United States have painful foot
problems at some point in their lives.
Even President Lincoln said, "I cannot think clearly when my
feet hurt." The situation is no different today. Good foot health can enhance your daily existence and improve
your quality of life.
What
Causes Foot and Ankle Problems?
 | Foot and ankle problems are
quite common and include: congenital, acquired, traumatic, infectious,
neoplastic, and arthritic. When
foot and ankle problems occur at birth, they are called congenital and
are generally inherited. |
| Acquired problems may
result from improper footwear, physical stress, or small mechanical
changes within the foot which can slowly increase with aging. |
| Traumatic problems are
associated with injuries to the foot and ankle such as a sprained or
broken ankle or a fracture of the foot. |
| Infectious problems are the
result of bacterial, viral, or fungal disorders that may affect
superficial or deep tissues. |
| Neoplastic disorders
(tumors) are the result of abnormal growth of tissue and may be benign
or malignant. |
| Arthritic disorders may
involve one or more joints and may be secondary to trauma or
associated with systemic disease. |
| Members of the American
College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons can help answer your questions
about any of these problems. |
What
Conditions Respond Well to Surgery?
Conditions that are often
alleviated through surgical procedures include:
| Sprains and fractures |
| Arthritis and joint disease |
| Benign and malignant tumors (neuromas) |
| Birth deformities |
| Bunions |
| Hammertoes |
| Calluses (addressing the
underlying cause) |
| Severe or symptomatic flatfeet |
If you have questions about
any of these conditions, the podiatric surgeons at the Rochester Center
for Foot and Ankle Surgery can explain the condition and treatment
options.
Why
Surgery?
Conservative treatment of many
foot and ankle problems often produces temporary relief of pain.
If pain persists, surgery is sometimes the more definitive answer
to a persistent problem and the best way to prevent more serious
conditions. On the other
hand, surgery is not always the best approach for all patients.
It should only be considered as a last resort when conservative
management has failed. Your podiatric surgeon can tell if you are an appropriate
surgical candidate.
Does
Foot Surgery Require Hospitalization?
Not usually.
Most surgical procedures are performed in the operative room, but
some minor procedures can be performed in the office.
Your podiatric surgeon is well qualified to discuss the needs of
your particular case. Surgery
may be performed under local anesthesia and light sedation, “twilight”
anesthesia, administered by a trained anesthesiologist.
Some larger procedures require general or spinal anesthesia. Your surgeon will advise you on the best possible peri-operative
care, so that your recovery will be rapid and as comfortable as possible.
What
Is Worn on the Foot Following Surgery?
Each surgical procedure
requires a different type of foot immobilization such as a bandage,
splint, surgical shoe, or cast. Good
post-operative results require proper foot support to prevent future
problems. Early use of leg
and foot muscles hastens recovery. After
sufficient healing time, most patients can resume wearing their usual
footwear.
Is
Special Treatment Needed After Surgery?
All patients require
post-operative care. This may
include physical therapy, orthotic devices (arch supports), and special
footwear. In addition, it is
vital to make timely follow-up appointments to ensure timely improvements
to maximize the outcome.
Are
There Risks Involved for Older Patients?
Attention is given to the
special needs of older patients. This
may include a consultation with your internist or specialist to evaluate
your condition and determine the safest procedures.
Medical and cardiac clearance is typically needed before proceeding
with any surgery.
Is Foot Surgery Advisable for Diabetics?
Diabetics must take special
care of their feet as they are prone to developing complications with the
lower extremities. Proper
control of the diabetic’s blood sugar and thorough evaluation of
circulation and healing abilities are necessary before surgery is
considered. Foot and ankle surgery on diabetics who are well controlled
is usually successful and may serve to prevent severe diabetic
complications from occurring. Inherently,
poorly-controlled diabetics have higher risks of infections, wound
healing, and bone healing complications.
