Foot and Ankle Fracture Surgery

What is foot and ankle fracture surgery?

Many fractures heal without surgery. Surgery may be recommended when bones are displaced, a joint is unstable, the skin is at risk, or the fracture pattern is unlikely to heal well with a cast or boot alone. The goal is to restore alignment and create enough stability for healing.

Who may benefit

Surgical evaluation may be needed for:

• A displaced ankle or foot fracture
• An unstable joint injury
• An open fracture or threatened skin
• Certain Lisfranc, metatarsal, or high risk stress fractures
• A fracture that has not healed in the expected position

What to expect

Urgent care begins with protecting the limb and checking skin, circulation, sensation, and alignment. Imaging may include X-rays and, for complex injuries, CT or MRI.

• The surgeon explains the fracture pattern and treatment choices
• Swelling and skin condition help determine timing
• Fixation may include screws, plates, wires, or other devices
• A plan is made for weight bearing, wound care, follow up imaging, and rehabilitation

Important considerations

• Some fractures require temporary reduction before surgery
• Smoking, diabetes, circulation, and nutrition can affect healing
• Recovery length depends on the bone, joint, and injury severity
• Physical therapy may be important after protection is reduced

A fracture should be evaluated promptly. Delaying care can make alignment, swelling, skin, and joint damage harder to manage.

Frequently asked questions

Do all ankle fractures need surgery?

No. Stable fractures in acceptable alignment may heal with a cast or boot and close follow up.

Why might surgery be delayed for swelling?

Very swollen skin may not heal safely after an incision. The fracture is protected while the soft tissue improves.

When can I bear weight?

The timeline depends on the fracture, fixation, bone healing, and X-ray findings. Follow the surgeon's instructions closely.

How to prepare for your appointment

Bring your usual walking or athletic shoes and any prior imaging. Note where the pain begins, which activities affect it, whether an injury occurred, and what treatments you have already tried.

Related care

You may also want to explore diagnostic ultrasound, bracing and walking boots, and shockwave therapy.

Schedule a consultation

A visit helps determine whether this option fits your diagnosis, health history, and goals. Signature Foot and Ankle provides care in Boynton Beach and Loxahatchee. Call 561 203 9285 or request an appointment online.