Surgery for foot arthritis includes joint preserving surgery to help reduce symptoms or more definitive procedures to remove the arthritic surfaces generally a fusion but in some instances joint replacement surgery.

What Does the Operation Involve?

Various anaesthetic techniques are possible. This will be specific to the arthritic area and surgical procedure. It is likely that for the first 2 weeks you will need to be at home and elevating your leg to reduce swelling. You may have a plaster, surgical shoe or boot and advise will be given as to how much weight to place on your foot and for how long.

What Complications Can Happen?

General Complications

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection of the surgical site (wound)
• Unsightly scarring
• Blood clots
• Difficulty passing urine

Specific Complications

• Damage to nerves
• Problems with bone healing
• Later removal of metalwork
• Severe pain, stiffness and loss of use of your foot (complex regional pain syndrome)

If you have arthritis that is causing pain or stiffness then you may benefit from a discussion as to the non-surgical and surgical options of treatment.