Foot pain is an occasional reminder that “out of sight” does not necessarily mean “out of mind.” Feet are probably not the most attractive part of the body. Yet they are essential for proper function, balance and coordination while walking. This is why foot problems, such as bunions, can become uncomfortable, painful, and even interfere with normal life activities, if not treated correctly. When non-surgical methods fail, bunion surgery (bunionectomy) may be needed. As with any surgery, no procedure is without risk, but the choice of a surgeon affects the outcome.
How a Podiatric Surgeon Differs from an Orthopedist
One of the first choices a person in need of bunion surgery might face is the type of surgeon to go to. While foot deformities can be corrected by orthopedists and podiatric surgeons, a key difference is that podiatric surgeons treat a higher volume of cases and spend more time focused on the foot and ankle during their training.
Orthopedic surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in the surgical treatment of musculoskeletal problems of the body in general. Some orthopedic surgeons can decide to further specialize in specific areas, such as foot and ankle surgery.
Podiatric surgeons, on the other hand, are specialists in foot and ankle surgery. After their podiatric medical school training, they undergo residency training in the complete medical and surgical care of the foot and ankle.
Referrals are a Good Place to Start
Satisfied patients are the ultimate, but not the only advertisement of good doctors. In addition to the ‘traditional’ Yellow Pages directory search, the search for a good foot surgeon can begin with recommendations from:
- A primary care doctor
- Current or former patients of a particular surgeon
- Staff members of nearby hospitals or surgery centers – especially nurses, since they interact with many doctors
- Loved ones, friends or colleagues who have had foot surgeries
About Board Certification
Board certification is an important factor in the choice of a bunion surgeon. It is a demanding process, which ensures that surgeons have not only gone through appropriate training, but that they have successfully handled a broad range of surgical cases over several years. Surgeons have to pass extensive written and oral examinations in order to be board-certified.
The American Board of Podiatric Surgery (ABPS) is the most recognized certification board for podiatric surgeons. General orthopedic surgeons are certified through the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS). Both boards have physician directories on their websites.
Experience and Involvement in Research are Helpful
More than 50 techniques of bunion surgery exist, and it is up to a surgeon to decide which one would give the best results for a given patient. Experience is likely to matter. An experienced bunion surgeon is not only more likely to inspire confidence in a patient, but also to reduce the chance of complications from bunion surgery, or better deal with any complications that may arise before, during or after a bunion surgery.
Medicine is a dynamic field, in which knowledge continually increases. A foot surgeon who is interested or involved in research is usually one who is interested in discovering new techniques, or improving current methods of care in his or her field. One way to assess a foot surgeon’s involvement in research is to check if he or she has been published in peer-reviewed journals. A good place to search would be the National Library of Medicine website.
Location and Bedside Manners are Important
It is important to know where a foot doctor performs surgeries, because different types of location have different standards. For instance, office-based surgery centers must be approved, but are not regulated. In contrast, doctors who perform surgeries in a hospital not only have to go through a credentialing process, but are also re-evaluated on a regular basis.
Lastly, “bedside manners” matter. Good communication and soft-handling can make a positive difference in the patient-doctor relationship. The way to a successful bunion surgery might very well go through a skilled foot surgeon who truly listens, clearly and honestly communicates about the case at-hand, including all possible treatment options and follow-up care. When consulting a foot surgeon, ask questions to make an informed decision.
Resources
What to Ask Your Foot and Ankle Surgeon
References
The Foot & Ankle Center of Washington: Bunion Surgery
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Educational Reference
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