Anesthesia: “Local MAC,” general, or spinal anesthesia can be used depending on your preference and particular circumstance. Local MAC stands for Local anesthetic and Monitored Anesthesia Care. An IV is started and an anesthesiologist gives you medication that makes you very drowsy, but allows you to breathe on your own. Local anesthetic is used to numb the foot. The local anesthetic usually lasts well beyond the time it takes to perform the surgery; therefore, helps with postoperative pain.

Anesthetic or Medical problems and Death: Very rare. The risk depends on how many and what kind of medical problems each patient has. Death is extremely rare.

Blood clot: Rare. In fact, the risk of preventing a blood clot with blood thinners is greater than the risk of getting a blood clot after foot surgery; therefore, blood thinners are only used in patients who are at high risk for developing a blood clot.

Allergic reaction to medications: Uncommon.

Bone healing problems: Uncommon, but the risk is increased in smokers and people who are too active after surgery.

Wound healing problems: Uncommon, but the risk is increased in people with Diabetes, smokers, and people who have poor blood supply to the feet.

Continued pain: It is possible, but uncommon to have continued pain. Discuss the chances of continued pain with Dr. Davis before you decide to have surgery.

Infection: Risk of surgical infection is less than 1%. Antibiotics are given just before surgery to prevent infection.