This treatment is usually an outpatient procedure done under IV sedation. This type of sedation is extremely safe—you are breathing on your own and it is more like a deep sleep. The foot is numbed locally as well, and Dr. Bembynista performs the procedure. After the surgery, the patient is given postoperative instructions, as well as pain medication.

We normally phone out your pain medication for pick up. The patient is asked to start taking the medicine before the numbing wears off in order to break the pain cycle. You should take the medication throughout the night immediately following the surgery and for the first twenty-four to thirty-six hours afterwards.

When the procedure is done outpatient, Dr. Bembynista will call you the night of the surgery to make sure you’re doing well and also to answer any questions you may have. He provides his cell number to all surgical patients. We will see you the following week, at which time we will change your bandage and review activities. Sutures are normally removed within two weeks, and return to a regular shoe occurs normally within the first or second month of recovery.

It is important to note that internal fixation with screws and early range of motion post-surgery reduces the time of return to regular activities, work, and sports.