Foot cyst surgery comes to the rescue in case of persistent and painful swelling that restricts movement. It is a surgical procedure that helps slow cyst volume increase, all while reducing the risk of cysts coming back.
However, patients normally tend to resort to other treatments first, seeing as cysts are usually painless.
What are cysts?
Cysts may appear in any joint of the body, including the feet. They are defined by an abnormal, non-contagious, and usually, benign growth filled with fluid. Sometimes they are congenital in origin.
In podiatry, cysts on the feet generally include the 2 following types:
- Synovial cyst: This type of cyst originates from the rupture of the metatarsals’ joint capsule, which allows the synovial fluid within to drain. Subsequently, this outflow results in a cyst that can sometimes cause pain. It usually forms slowly and gradually, and it is not uncommon for cysts to reappear after a few months.
- Epidermoid cyst, or epidermal inclusion cyst: As suggested by the name, this cyst forms in the foot’s top layer of skin, known as the epidermis. This smoother skin growth usually results from trauma or a clogged skin pore.
A podiatry clinic can directly offer surgery for some superficial foot cysts; particularly in the toe, as the skin is thin and the cysts are easily accessible.
Who is at risk?
Foot cysts can affect anyone regardless of age or lifestyle and manifest themselves in many ways.
While most times, cysts are mild and painless, those who experience significant or painful swelling that interferes with their daily life, should immediately see a podiatrist.
Keep in mind that diabetics and individuals with poor foot hygiene are at greater risk than others.
What can a patient expect from a foot cyst surgery?
The treating podiatrist must make sure to adequately prepare the patient for the procedure ahead. It is essential to outline the process, as well as every method that will be used.
As a patient, you should choose a podiatrist on whom you can rely to treat the cyst painlessly and effectively. The podiatrist must also take the necessary time to be transparent and clearly answer all of your questions.
When should we resort to foot cyst surgery?
Generally, foot cyst surgery is kept for very particular cases, such as a painful cyst, or a cyst that cannot be treated with conservative methods like puncture and cortisone. If the cyst interferes with walking or feels like it’s swelling too much, then surgery may finally be required.
How to choose the right podiatrist to treat a cyst?
Just like with any other issue, when treating foot cysts, your podiatrist must:
- Have expertise and experience
Take your time to research and evaluate your podiatrist’s career path. Pay attention to their level of experience and what endorsements they may have received.
- Personalize your treatment plan according to your situation
When creating your treatment plan, the podiatrist must be able to take into account your needs and your medical history. Certain cases may also call for the podiatrist’s ability to perform complex procedures.
- Be human and available
A good podiatrist must be empathetic, respectful, and professional. They must establish a solid relationship of trust with you, and be able to provide an explanation for every step of your treatment. In addition, this professional must be there for you and be able to treat you quickly when needed.
A patient’s medical history is crucial
The podiatrist can determine why a cyst has appeared on your foot by asking targeted questions about your medical history. Your medical history will also help them determine whether your case is urgent and whether surgery is necessary or not.
Clinical examination
The clinical examination, which is an essential part of any podiatric treatment, allows the treating podiatrist to assess whether you may require surgery, or if you should rather pursue alternative treatments in order to remove cysts.
In this part of the examination, the podiatrist assesses:
- Your surgical history;
- Your medical history;
- Your medications;
- Your allergies.
Conservative treatments
Foot cyst surgery is generally a last resort, used only in exceptional cases. Normally, you may find relief through other conservative treatments:
- Cyst drainage;
- Cortisone injections;
- Compression bandage.
The benefits of foot cyst surgery
Foot cyst surgery can offer the patients a number of interesting benefits:
- It is painless (performed under local anesthesia);
- It is simple and quick;
- It prevents recurring cysts.
Why choose a podiatrist for a cyst surgery?
Only a podiatrist has the necessary know-how to evaluate your condition and offer the best options for treating your foot cyst problems:
- They will make it easier for you to get assistance;
- They can recommend other medical professionals who can help you;
- They provide full support;
- They perform thorough follow-up examinations;
- They prevent possible future complications.
Your podiatrist is equipped with the right expertise and tools to properly treat you, as well as explain your situation and guide you through every step of the procedure.
Choosing PiedReseau offers you a number of benefits
Your PiedReseau clinics offer you the following benefits:
- Podiatry clinics all over Quebec;
- Available, efficient, and professional podiatrists;
- Prompt assistance;
- Clear answers to your questions.
Entrust your well-being in the capable hands of a network of podiatrists.
Foot cyst surgery procedure
A cyst surgery is performed under local anesthesia and usually proceeds as follows:
- First, the tissue around the cyst is dissected;
- Then, an incision is made at the swelling;
- Finally, the cyst is removed.
As a result of the procedure, you may need sutures.
Overall, this procedure takes about 30 minutes, sometimes less. Your podiatrist will schedule a follow-up visit 1 to 2 weeks after the surgery.
How long does it take to recover from foot cyst surgery?
Usually, after your foot cyst surgery, you should avoid sports, work, and driving a car for about 2 weeks.
While healing, you may experience discomfort walking and putting on shoes. However, your recovery doesn’t require you to remain fully sedentary.
Remember to check with your podiatrist for approval before resuming sports or any other physical activity.
Closely follow your podiatrist’s instructions
Make sure to follow your podiatrist’s instructions to the letter in order to stop the spread of cysts in your feet for good. You are the only one responsible for implementing your podiatrist’s recommendations, as they will have a great impact on the quality of your recovery and on the relief of your pain.
