surgery

By appointment, Monday through Friday.
Tel: (514) 254-5000
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Surgery

American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

FOOT & ANKLE SURGERY
Podiatric surgery is practiced on the feet, ankles and lower limbs, by highly qualified podiatric surgeons, members of ACFAS (American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons).

The problems addressed may be congenital, hereditary, traumatic, due to arthritis, physical stress, poor footwear, an imbalance of muscles and joints, as well as the surface on which you walk for long hours (such as concrete). What is important to remember is that podiatric surgeons are the most qualified people to help you overcome these problems.

Podiatric surgery differs from other forms of surgical procedures by the very specific characteristics and functions of the lower limbs. In addition to supporting our body weight, our feet are under stress repeatedly. Podiatric surgery aims to correct the problem immediately and to preserve the best biomechanical condition of the patient.

Research conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association reveals that over 70% of North Americans will experience foot problems in their life.

WHAT CAUSES PROBLEMS RELATED TO FEET AND ANKLES?
The problems related to feet and ankles are very common and of varying types. Problems are, among others, congenital, acquired, traumatic, infectious, cancer & arthritis. The problems of feet and ankles already present at birth are called congenital and are usually inherited.

Problems acquired: They result from wearing improper footwear, physical stress, or small changes in the structure of the feet that get worse with age.

Traumatic problems: They are due to sprains as well as foot and ankle fractures.

Infectious diseases: They are related to bacteria, viruses and fungi and can affect the skin and underlying tissues.

Cancerous diseases (tumors): These result from abnormal growth of malignant or benign tissue.

Arthritis pain: They can affect one or more joints and may be secondary to trauma (e.g. sprains) or associated with a systemic problem.

A FEW SURGERIES PRACTISED BY PODIATRIC SURGEONS:
• Sprains and fractures
• Arthritis and joint problems
• Malignant and benign tumors
• Congenital deformities
• Hallux valgus "Onions"
• Calluses and warts
• Hammer toes
• Flat feet
• Exostosis and heel spur syndrome
• Ingrown toenails
• Plantar neuroma

If you have any questions, your podiatric surgeon can explain what those surgeries are and the possible alternatives.

WHY CHOOSE SURGERY?
Conservative treatments for several problems related to the feet and ankles only get rid of the pain for a short period of time. So when the pain persists, surgery can sometimes be an interesting and durable alternative that will prevent the deterioration of your condition. The surgery is not desirable for all patients; several factors are to be considered.

DOES SURGERY REQUIRE HOSPITALIZATION?
Usually not. The surgical procedure can be done at the clinic itself . Your podiatric surgeon can discuss with you your personal needs. Surgery can be performed under local anesthesia or by the ingestion of a mild sedative. Your surgeon will also explain everything that needs to be done to experience a speedy recovery that will be as painless as possible after you leave our surgical room.

TYPES OF IMMOBILIZATION FOLLOWING A PODIATRIC SURGERY
Each surgical procedure requires a type of immobilization of its own such as bandages, splint, surgical shoe, cast or open sandal. These postoperative items can be decisive with respect to the outcome of the surgery. Following your surgery and when the podiatrist notifies you, an active lifestyle will keep your lower limbs alert. Once the recovery is complete, most people can resume wearing their usual shoes.

DOES ONE NEED SPECIAL CARE AFTER A SURGERY?
After recovery, some patients will need special care such as physiotherapy, plantar orthoses or special shoes. This care is intended to maintain a good surgical result.

IS THERE ANY RISK FOR SENIORS WILLING TO UNDERGO PODIATRIC SURGERY?
When the health condition of seniors willing to undergo surgery is good, there are no counter indicators.

IS IT POSSIBLE FOR A DIABETIC PERSON TO UNDERGO PODIATRIC SURGERY?
Diabetics should pay close attention to the health of their feet. Well-monitored sugar level and good blood circulation are two essential keys to good recovery. It is therefore essential to check these elements before considering any podiatric surgery. Surgeries in the feet and ankles performed on patients with diabetes monitoring both of the aspects mentioned above have a very good success rate. In addition, podiatric surgery may, in some cases, prevent the development of severe complications.