2 Complex Surgical Techniques Podiatrists Use Often

17 Aug, 2024

2 Complex Surgical Techniques Podiatrists Use Often

Podiatrists, also known as foot doctors or foot specialists, focus on foot care, diagnosing and treating various foot and ankle issues. While many people visit podiatrists for routine care like trimming toenails, managing foot pain, or treating infections, these foot specialists are also highly trained in performing complex surgical procedures. These surgeries can correct severe problems with the foot, helping patients regain mobility and live without pain. Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists presents two complex surgical techniques podiatrists often use to address challenging foot conditions.

1. Bunion Surgery (Bunionectomy)

One of the more common complex surgeries a podiatrist performs is bunion surgery, also known as a bunionectomy. A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This bump is usually caused by an imbalance in the foot’s structure that pushes the toe out of place, making it painful and difficult to walk. Over time, the bunion can grow larger and become even more uncomfortable, leading many patients to seek out help from a foot specialist.

Bunion surgery involves cutting and realigning the foot's bones, tendons, and ligaments.

Depending on the severity of the bunion, the foot doctor may need to remove part of the bone to correct the misalignment or fuse joints together to stabilize the foot. This complex surgical technique requires careful planning to ensure the foot heals correctly and the bunion doesn’t return. Each surgery is tailored to the patient’s specific foot structure, making it a precise and individualized procedure.

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Recovery from bunion surgery can take several weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient’s health. During this time, the foot specialist will often recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the foot and improve mobility. Patients may also need to wear special footwear to protect the foot as it heals.

2. Achilles Tendon Repair

Another complex surgical technique that podiatrists frequently perform is Achilles tendon repair. The Achilles tendon is the largest in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone.

When the Achilles tendon is severely damaged, surgery is often required to repair it. Achilles tendon repair involves sewing the torn ends of the tendon back together. In some cases, if the tendon has degenerated too much, the foot doctor may use a tendon graft from another part of the body to reinforce the repair. The surgeon must carefully stitch the tendon back in place to avoid further complications while ensuring the surrounding tissue heals correctly.

This type of foot surgery is complex because the Achilles tendon is stressed whenever a person takes a step. If the tendon is not repaired correctly, it can rupture or fail to heal, leading to more pain and potentially permanent damage.

After surgery, the patient will need to keep weight off the foot for several weeks, often using crutches or a special boot to allow the tendon to heal. Like bunion surgery, rehabilitation and physical therapy are vital parts of recovery.

Whether the injury is due to sports, an accident, or simply overuse, this surgery helps many people return to normal activities with less pain and a more muscular, healthier foot.

Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists

Podiatrists, or foot specialists, are essential for routine and complex foot care. While many people see them for minor issues, podiatrists can perform advanced surgeries like bunionectomy and Achilles tendon repair. These complex surgical techniques require precise skill and knowledge to ensure that the patient’s foot heals appropriately and can function well in the long term.