*Some Frequently Asked Questions*
Q. What conditions can A.F.S treat?
Common but painful conditions such as:
- Bunions
- Hammer toes
- Bone spurs
- Trapped nerves
- Nail Deformities
- Corns
Form the bulk of procedures. Many patients
present for surgical opinion on past surgery performed at
a time when foot surgery knowledge was not as advanced as
today. Many patients opt for further surgery to bring their
problem to a better conclusion
*Questions patients ask us*
Q. Who performs the surgery?
Post graduate surgical Podiatrists who are
Fellows of the Surgical Faculty of the College of Podiatrists
identified by the designatory letters F.C. Pod.S who are members
of the Society of Chiropodists & Podiatrists, i.e. the
professional body representing Registered Podiatrists.
H.P.C. registration is the standard set by
H.M. Government through the Health Professions Council and
is the only standard acceptable for NHS appointment. There
are presently about 130 surgical fellows registered in England
and Wales. The Scottish Office is presently making very positive
efforts to introduce Ambulatory Foot Surgery into their health
care system from 2005
Q. Where is the surgery performed?
We have our own operating facilities on site.
Others may make use of private hospitals & clinics
Q. Is A.F.S safe?
In a recent white paper on NHS surgical provision
the government has a vision of seeing 45% of all surgical
procedures as day-case surgery (British Assoc. Of Day Surgery
2002) including Podiatric Surgery. The concept of day surgery
under local anaesthesia by injection is not new.
Over 200,000 procedures are performed each day by over 20,000
surgical practitioners within the profession of Dentistry!
In fact we tell our patients to regard A.F.S as an extended
dental appointment.
Q. How do I receive Podiatric surgery?
Firstly telephone for an initial consultation
appointment with our Podiatric surgeons just as you would
with your dentist. The initial consultation is concerned with
your suitability for surgery investigating areas such as your
general health, past anaesthetic history, present medication,
home circumstances for post-operative period etc. X-Rays may
be taken. Procedures and costs break down will be fully explained
and a follow up letter prepared indicating your treatment
plan & fees.
Q. Do all patients receive surgery?
No! If there are contra indications either
on a medical, anaesthetic, psychological or aftercare basis
then A.F.S will not be offered in the interest of patient
safety. However, alternative treatment(s) will be explored.
Q. …And if I am suitable for A.F.S?
A. You will be asked to return for another
appointment prior to your surgery when a more detailed History
& Physical Examination is performed.
X-Rays will be prepared,
blood pressure etc. will be taken,
your surgical options will be outlined and instruction on
home care will be given.
Transport and escort will be discussed.
Q. What happens on the day of surgery &
after?
You will stay within our facility between
2-4 hours, and your stay will consist of :-
- A review of your medical history (noting
any changes since your last visit). This will be conducted
by the Podiatrist who administers the local anaesthesia
by injection (As it is local anaesthetic, you can have a
light meal before surgery)
- Your surgeon will once again explain your
operation to you. Consent to surgery form is then signed.
- Your local anaesthetic is given
- Your surgery is performed & postoperative
instructions are given to you. Your first post operative
return appointment will then be scheduled.
- You return home immediately with your
escort (by taxi car etc.) you DO NOT walk home!
Post Operative Care:
- Your first redressing change is usually
3-5 days after surgery.
- Sutures (stitches) are removed between
10-14 days after surgery & your rehabilitation programme
is explained.
- Your surgery is then reviewed one month
later
- Further reviews depending upon procedure(s).
- At all stages we encourage you to ask questions
as we operate a policy of informed consent
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