Foot And Ankle Surgery Specialist
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Christie Foot & Ankle
Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Greenwood, IN
Most cases of foot and ankle pain respond to conservative treatments, like rest and physical therapy. Even so, some issues, like fractures and dislocated joints, require more complex care. At Christie Foot & Ankle, experienced podiatrist Drew Christie, DPM, and the team regularly perform foot and ankle surgery. Using minimally invasive procedures, the process is quick, relatively painless, and much safer than traditional open techniques. To make an appointment, call the office in Greenwood, Indiana, or book online today.
Foot and Ankle Surgery Q&A
What is foot and ankle surgery?
Foot and ankle surgery is a group of orthopedic procedures that use special tools and anesthesia to treat a disease or make repairs after an accident or injury.
Most conditions that affect the feet and ankles respond to noninvasive treatments, like physical therapy, orthotics, or wearing different shoes. If you experience foot or ankle pain and it doesn’t respond to these measures, you might be a candidate for surgery.
What are some common types of foot and ankle surgery?
Dr. Christie and the team offer several types of foot and ankle surgery, including:
- Ankle ligament reconstruction
- Minimally invasive procedures
- Bunion surgery (bunionectomy)
- Ankle fusion
- Achilles tendon repair surgery
- Plantar fascia release
- Morton’s neuroma surgery
- Hammertoe surgery
- Tendon transfer surgery
Dr. Christie and the team also perform reconstructive foot and ankle surgery for serious fractures and dislocated joints.
What happens before foot and ankle surgery?
Before recommending foot and ankle surgery, Dr. Christie reviews your medical records and conducts a pre-operative exam.
During the exam, let Dr. Christie know about the prescription medications and supplements you take. In addition, alert him to any chronic medical conditions, like high blood pressure. The night before your operation, fast for at least 12 hours and drink only water.
On the day of your procedure, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and leave your jewelry at home. If you’re undergoing minimally invasive surgery, have someone available to drive you home because it takes several hours for the anesthesia to wear off.
What does foot and ankle surgery involve?
Dr. Christie and the team perform foot and ankle surgery at a nearby hospital or surgical facility.
When you arrive, you change into a hospital gown and lie down on an exam table in the operating suite. Dr. Christie and his anesthesiologist administer general anesthesia into a vein that puts you to sleep.
Once you’re comfortable, he makes a series of small incisions over the treatment site and uses special tools to make repairs. After repairing your hard or soft tissues, Dr. Christie removes the tools, closes the incision, and wraps it in a clean dressing. Then, he moves you to a recovery room for observation.
What can I expect during my recovery from foot and ankle surgery?
After foot and ankle surgery, you return home the same day, as it is outpatient surgery. In the first few days after your procedure, it’s normal to experience pain, swelling, and bruising. Take your medication as prescribed and follow Dr. Christie’s instructions carefully.
As your body begins healing, your recovery may require physical therapy. Physical therapy teaches you stretches and strengthening exercises that help speed up your body’s recovery process. The length of time it takes to recover depends on various factors, including your current health and the type of surgery you underwent.
To see if you might benefit from foot and ankle surgery, make an appointment at Christie Foot & Ankle by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.