Surgical Outcomes
If you have been placed on the waiting list for orthopedic surgery, it is important to read and be familiar with the following information.
It is important to understand that orthopedic surgery in general, but particularly orthopedic surgery of the foot and ankle is associated with significant risk.
Complications of surgery can occur. Sometimes, it does not matter how knowledgeable, caring and well meaning, or technically proficient your orthopedic surgeon is. Also it might not matter how compliant you are with the recommended post-operative treatment protocol. Very significant problems can occur despite perfect treatment and care. Complication rates vary depending upon the procedure, but every foot and ankle surgery is potentially life or limb threatening.
Risks that are associated with surgery include, but are not limited to:
Strict adherence to post-operative recommendations can diminish risk, but does not eliminate it. It is very important that you follow post-operative instructions. These include:
If you have any further questions about your surgery, or about the potential risk, please contact our office.
It is important to understand that orthopedic surgery in general, but particularly orthopedic surgery of the foot and ankle is associated with significant risk.
Complications of surgery can occur. Sometimes, it does not matter how knowledgeable, caring and well meaning, or technically proficient your orthopedic surgeon is. Also it might not matter how compliant you are with the recommended post-operative treatment protocol. Very significant problems can occur despite perfect treatment and care. Complication rates vary depending upon the procedure, but every foot and ankle surgery is potentially life or limb threatening.
Risks that are associated with surgery include, but are not limited to:
- Heart attack
- Blood clot
- Stroke
- Pneumonia
- Infection
- Non-union (the bones may not heal together)
- Persistent or recurrent mal alignment
- Persistent or recurrent deformity or stiffness
- Progressive arthritis
- Persistent pain including the intractable pain of regional pain syndrome
- Nerve Injury
- Blood vessel injury
Strict adherence to post-operative recommendations can diminish risk, but does not eliminate it. It is very important that you follow post-operative instructions. These include:
- Rest and elevation of the limb
- Absolute compliance with the recommended period of non-weight bearing
- The use of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin C
- Cessation of smoking
- Do not use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory mediation
If you have any further questions about your surgery, or about the potential risk, please contact our office.