Possible Complications
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
- Excess bleeding
- Infection
- Problems from anesthesia, such as wheezing or a sore throat
- Poor alignment of the joint, causing pain or problems walking
- Failure of the joint to fuse
- Need for repeat surgery
- Nerve damage
Things that may raise the risk of problems are:
- Smoking
- Drinking excess alcohol
- Chronic diseases, such as diabetes or obesity
Reasons for Procedure
This surgery is done on people with ankle or foot pain who are not helped by other methods. It may be done to ease pain from:
- Arthritis
- Poorly healed fractures
- Damaged cartilage
- Abnormal foot structures
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
The surgical team may meet with you to talk about:
- Anesthesia options
- Any allergies you may have
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before surgery
- Fasting before surgery, such as avoiding food or drink after midnight the night before
- Arranging for a ride to and from surgery
- Images of your foot that may need to be taken before surgery
Anesthesia
The doctor may give:
- General anesthesia—You will be asleep.
- Spinal anesthesia—Your
lower body will be numb.
Description of the Procedure
One or more long cuts will be made. Tools will be inserted through them. They will be
used to remove cartilage from the joint. Any repairs will be made. The bones will be
connected using things like screws, plates, rods, or bone grafts. The tools will be
removed. The cuts will be closed with stitches or staples. Bandages will be used to
cover them.
How Long Will It Take?
About 2 to 3 hours
Will It Hurt?
Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and swelling
are common in the first few weeks. Medicine and home care can help.
Average Hospital Stay
The usual length of stay is 2 to 4 days. If you have any problems, you may need to stay longer.
Post-procedure Care
At the Hospital
At the care center, the staff may:
At the care center, the staff may:
- Give you pain medicine
- Support the foot with a splint
- Teach you how to use crutches
During your stay, staff will take steps to lower your chance of infection, such as:
- Washing their hands
- Wearing gloves or masks
- Keeping your wounds covered
You can also lower your chance of infection by:
- Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and staff to do the same
- Reminding staff to wear gloves or masks
- Not letting others touch your wounds
At Home
It will take up to 4 months to heal and fuse the joint(s).
You will have a gradual return to normal activity levels. During that time, you
will be in a cast or boot.
Problems to Look Out For
Call the doctor if you are not getting better or you have:
- Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, a lot of bleeding, or discharge from the incision
- Pain that you cannot control with medicine
- Skin that is cold, discolored, numb, or tingly
- New or worsening symptoms
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right
away.