This procedure is usually performed as a day case. It is normally performed under general anaesthetic and frequently combined with a local anaesthetic block for pain relief. The affected joint is accessed via an incision on top of the joint. The damaged cartilage is then removed and the bones held together with a wire (see X-ray below). 

 

After surgery your foot will be bandaged in a bulky dressing. Your foot will be protected in an orthopaedic shoe for 6 weeks. You will be allowed to walk on the operated foot but taking most of your weight through the heel. You will have a change of dressings at 2 weeks and at 6 weeks, the wire will be removed in clinic.

It is important to keep the foot elevated as much as possible especially for the first 3 days.

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You will usually be able to go home when you feel ready. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home. You should try to have a friend or relative stay with you for the first 24 hours. You will be followed-up in clinic 12 to 14 days after surgery for wound care and to reduce the foot dressing. A further follow-up would be arranged roughly 4 weeks later to X-ray your foot. If the X-rays are satisfactory, you may start progressing to normal walking out of the orthopaedic shoe.

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Wound care – The bulky dressing should be kept on until your clinic appointment.

 

Walking - Try to keep your foot elevated as much as possible to prevent swelling. You will be able to walk on the day of your surgery unless advised otherwise.  You may mobilise freely around the house but long walks or standing for long periods should be avoided. You may need to use a stick or crutches for a few days.

 

Work - If you have a sedentary job you should be able to return to work within 2 weeks. If your job is physical, you may need to stay off work for at least 6 weeks.

 

Driving - You will not be able to drive for 6 weeks following surgery. However, if you drive an Automatic and it was your LEFT foot that was operated on; then you may start short drives 2 days following surgery. It is advisable to check the terms of your car insurance to ensure your cover is valid, as some policies state that you must not drive for a specific time period after an operation.

 

Flying after surgery - It is generally recommended to wait at least four to six weeks to fly after any lower limb surgery. It may be possible to fly on short-haul or domestic flights at an earlier time, but you should always check with your GP or surgeon. Always consult your doctor, your health insurance provider and the airline you are flying with before making your flight reservation.