Foot surgery is normally performed in one of three settings: your podiatrist's office, an ambulatory surgery center or in a hospital. Based on the type of surgery to be performed, as well as your age, medical history and health plan, your doctor will recommend the setting and the type of anesthesia (local anesthetic, local anesthetic with sedation or general anesthesia) to be used. Most podiatric cases are done on an out-patient basis, which means patients generally go home the same day of the surgery.

As with anyone undergoing surgery, you may need specific tests or examinations, such as blood and urine screenings, chest x-rays or an EKG. Your podiatrist will review your past medical history and may consult with other medical specialists, depending on your test results or current health status.

Post-operative

To ensure a rapid and successful recovery following foot surgery, it is important to follow your podiatric surgeon's advice. Post-operative instructions will be issued by your doctor describing post-surgery care including: ice, bandages, elevation, walking aids and medication, or just remember RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.