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Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I be off my feet?
Will the operation be painful?
Will it be painful afterwards?
Will I need my own transport?
How long will the operation take?
Can I eat before my operation?
Can I wear nail polish?
Will I need a Sick Certificate?
Will I need someone at home with me?
Driving
Swimming
How long will I be off my feet?
Generally speaking you will be off your feet for the first 48 hours. As such you will require help at home for at least this period of time. Following this you are encouraged to gently mobilise over the next week. The stitches are usually removed after 10-14 days, so you will be bandaged for this time. Once the stitches have been removed you may get the foot wet and have normal baths and showers.
Bones take at least 6 weeks to mend so you will have to be careful about returning to work before this time. You will be advised on the best time to return by Mr Jones. You can usually swim after about one month when the wound is completely healed.
Will the operation be painful?
You will feel no pain during the operation, as the foot will be numb. You will be closely attended during the operation to help take your mind off the strange goings on. You may bring a book to read or some music to listen to if you wish (we have facilities to play both CDs and audio tapes).
Will it be painful afterwards?
All patients will experience some discomfort after their surgery. The most important thing is to follow the advice that is given to you by Mr Jones. If you have been recommended painkillers do take them as instructed. If you are asked to get prescription painkillers always get them before your surgery and bring them with you.
Will I need my own transport?
You will NOT be able to drive following your operation. You will need to arrange for a friend or relative to collect you by car or organise a taxi after surgery. You MUST be accompanied home. Return travel by train is not permitted. You will also need to make arrangements to attend the follow up appointments with Mr Jones.
How long will the operation take?
Most operations will last less than half an hour but you will be on the Ward for a time following your surgery. If your transport is not waiting it is a good idea to have a telephone number handy so you can contact them when you are ready to go home.
Can I eat before my operation?
- Local Anaesthetic with sedation - Yes, food is permitted up to 6 hours before your operation.
- Local Anaesthetic Only - Yes, you should eat a normal breakfast or a light lunch at least two hours before your operation.
Can I wear nail polish?
Please remove any nail polish on your toes.
Will I need a Sick Certificate?
Yes, if you are absent from work for more than the normal 7-day self-certification period (check with your place of employment). You will need to arrange this through your GP.
Will I need someone at home with me?
Yes, - the first 24 hours as a minimum. Many operations will result in poor mobility for 3-4 days so care over this time will be much appreciated.
Driving
For most operations on the front of the foot it is important to be able to wear normal shoes before you are driving. For the majority of patients this can take between 3-6 weeks. Most big toe joint surgery will be nearer 4-6 weeks.
Swimming
This is an excellent rehabilitation exercise to perform after foot surgery. You must ensure however that the wound is well healed before immersion for long periods of time in water. This will normally take between 3-4 weeks after surgery.
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