Toe problems can significantly impact daily activities and overall foot health. Conditions such as bunions, hammer toes, arthritis, and fractures can cause pain and discomfort, making walking or standing for long periods difficult. Mr. Ziad Harb, a highly experienced orthopaedic consultant in Surrey, offers toe surgery to address these issues, improve mobility, and relieve pain. In this guide, we’ll explore the types of toe conditions that may require surgery, the surgical process, and what to expect during recovery.

‍

What is toe surgery?

Toe surgery refers to various surgical procedures performed to correct issues in the toe joints or bones, aiming to alleviate pain, improve function, and restore comfort. The surgery may be recommended for a range of conditions, including:

• Bunions: A painful, bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe.
• Hammer toe: A condition where one or more toes become bent and curled, often causing pain.
• Arthritis: Degeneration of the joint that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• Fractures: Broken or dislocated toes from injury or trauma.

Surgical treatment may be necessary when conservative treatments, such as orthotics, physical therapy, or medication, fail to relieve symptoms.

‍

Who can benefit from toe surgery?

Ideal candidates for toe surgery include individuals who experience:

• Persistent pain in the toes, especially during movement or while wearing shoes.
• Deformities such as bunions or hammer toes that do not respond to non-surgical treatments.
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in the toe joint caused by arthritis or injury.
• Difficulty walking or standing due to discomfort in the toes.

Mr. Harb performs a thorough assessment to determine whether toe surgery is the right option for you, considering your symptoms, overall health, and lifestyle.

‍

Toe surgery in Surrey: The Procedure

Pre-operative preparation
Before undergoing toe surgery, Mr. Harb and his team will help you prepare for the procedure, which typically includes:

• A consultation to review your medical history and discuss your specific symptoms and concerns.
• Pre-surgical imaging (X-rays or MRI) to assess the severity of the condition and plan the procedure.
• Instructions on fasting and stopping certain medications to prevent complications.

‍

The surgery/procedure itself
Toe surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia or, in some cases, general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery. The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the type of surgery required. Some of the most common types of toe surgery include:

• Bunionectomy: Removal of the bony bump and realignment of the big toe joint.
• Hammer Toe Correction: Straightening the bent toes by removing or shortening the affected bone.
• Arthrodesis: Fusing the joint to relieve pain and improve stability in cases of arthritis or joint damage.
• Toe Fracture Repair: Realigning fractured bones and stabilizing them with pins, screws, or plates.

Mr. Harb performs toe surgeries at leading hospitals in Surrey, such as Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital and Runnymede Hospital, which offer modern surgical facilities and comprehensive post-operative care.

‍

Post-operative care
After surgery, you will spend time in the recovery room, where your condition will be monitored. You can generally expect:

• A stay in the hospital for 1-2 days, depending on the procedure.
• Pain management with prescribed medications to keep you comfortable.
• The use of a special shoe or cast to protect the operated toe and promote healing.

‍

Recovery and aftercare
Recovery from toe surgery varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Generally, patients can expect the following timeline:

• First Few Days: Rest and elevation of the foot to reduce swelling and promote healing.
• First Few Weeks: Limited activity with the use of crutches or a special shoe to protect the foot and toe.
• 4-6 Weeks: Gradual return to walking with less pain. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and mobility.
• 3-6 Months: Full recovery, with most patients returning to regular activities and normal footwear.

It is important to follow Mr. Harb’s aftercare instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery process.

‍

Risks and complications

While toe surgery is generally safe, there are some risks, as with any surgical procedure. These may include:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
• Nerve damage, leading to numbness or tingling.
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the toe after surgery.
• Recurrence of the deformity if proper post-operative care is not followed.

Mr. Harb employs advanced surgical techniques and takes every precaution to minimize these risks, ensuring the best possible outcome for his patients.

‍

Why choose Mr. Ziad Harb in Surrey?

Mr. Ziad Harb is a highly skilled orthopaedic consultant with extensive experience in foot and ankle surgery, including toe procedures. He is committed to providing personalized care with a focus on minimally invasive techniques that promote faster recovery and reduce the risk of complications. His patients benefit from:

• Access to top-tier facilities like Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital and Runnymede Hospital.
• A thorough, patient-centred approach to ensure that every individual receives the most appropriate treatment plan.
• Compassionate care throughout the recovery process, ensuring the comfort and well-being of each patient.

‍

FAQs

Is toe surgery painful?
While there may be some discomfort during the recovery period, pain is generally well-managed with medications and physical therapy. Most patients find that the pain subsides significantly after the first few days.

‍

How long does recovery take?
Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the surgery, but most patients can expect to return to regular activities within 3-6 months. Initial recovery may take a few weeks, and physical therapy can help speed up the process.

‍

Will I need physiotherapy?
Yes, physiotherapy is often recommended after toe surgery to help restore mobility and strength in the foot and toes, as well as to prevent stiffness.

‍

Can I resume normal activities after surgery?
Mr. Harb will provide guidance on when it’s safe to resume specific activities. Most patients can gradually return to normal activities, including walking and light exercise, after a few weeks to months, depending on the procedure.

‍

Contact us today to learn more about how toe surgery with Mr. Ziad Harb can help alleviate foot pain and restore mobility.