Your feet carry you through life, but they’re easy to forget when you’re gearing up for surgery. At Southern California Multi-Specialty Center (SCMSC), we know that foot health matters just as much as any other part of your body during a hospital stay. Consulting a podiatrist can catch problems early, speed up your recovery, and prevent complications that could slow you down. With our multi-disciplinary team, including experts in podiatry, vascular surgery, general surgery, and interventional radiology, we make sure every patient gets top-notch care. Here’s why a podiatry consult is a game-changer when you’re in the hospital for surgery.
What a Podiatrist Brings to Your Surgical Care
A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist who knows how to keep your lower extremities in check. They spot issues like poor circulation, nerve damage, or wounds before they turn into bigger problems. During a hospital stay, they work with other doctors to make sure your feet don’t hold back your healing. Whether you’re having surgery on your foot or something else entirely, their expertise can make a big difference.
Dr. Francine Nazarian meets with a podiatry patient at SCMSC.
SCMSC’s Team Approach to Care
At SCMSC, we don’t just treat one part of you—we look at the whole picture. Our podiatrists, like Dr. Francine Nazarian, team up with general surgeons, vascular specialists, and interventional radiologists to create a plan that fits your needs. This multidisciplinary approach means your foot health gets the attention it deserves, no matter what surgery you’re facing. Learn more about our collaborative care on our podiatry services page.
Top Surgeries Where Podiatry Makes a Difference
Some procedures at SCMSC especially benefit from a podiatry consult. Here’s a look at the key ones:
Vascular Surgeries for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Vascular surgeries, like angioplasty or bypass for PAD, improve blood flow to your legs and feet. Poor circulation can lead to foot ulcers, infections, or slow-healing wounds, especially in diabetic patients. A podiatrist monitors your feet during and after these procedures to keep complications at bay and ensure proper healing.
General Surgeries with Prolonged Immobility
Surgeries like hernia repairs or stomach cancer treatments often require weeks of limited movement. Staying off your feet for too long can cause pressure sores, swelling, or even blood clots like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A podiatrist can recommend ways to protect your feet, like special padding or exercises, to keep you healthy while you recover.
Any Surgery for Diabetic Patients
If you have diabetes, your feet are at higher risk for problems like neuropathy or infections. Any surgery—whether it’s on your foot or elsewhere—can stress your body and make foot issues worse. A podiatry consult ensures your feet are checked and cared for, reducing the chance of serious complications.
Foot and Ankle Surgeries
SCMSC offers surgical care for conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and fractures. A podiatry consult is essential for these procedures, from planning the surgery to guiding you through recovery. Our podiatrists use both conservative treatments and advanced surgical techniques to get you back on your feet.
Interventional Radiology for Lower Extremity Issues
Some interventional radiology procedures, like treating varicose veins or DVT in the legs, involve the lower extremities. While these are minimally invasive, they can still affect foot health. A podiatrist can help manage any swelling, pain, or other issues that pop up after the procedure.
Why a Podiatry Consult Helps
Bringing a podiatrist into your surgical care has clear perks. They can catch foot problems early, like signs of poor circulation or nerve issues, which is especially important for diabetic patients. Studies show that podiatric care during hospitalization can cut the risk of foot-related complications by up to 30% for high-risk patients. Podiatrists also help with recovery by suggesting orthotics, wound care, or exercises to get you moving again. At SCMSC, this means fewer setbacks and a quicker return to your normal routine.
How Podiatry Fits Into Your Hospital Stay
Before surgery, a podiatrist might check your feet to spot any risks, like calluses or early ulcers, that could cause trouble later. During your hospital stay, they keep an eye on your feet, especially if you’re stuck in bed or have bandages that limit movement. After surgery, they guide you on how to care for your feet, whether it’s wearing the right shoes or keeping wounds clean. This teamwork with SCMSC’s other specialists ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
Special Cases: Who Benefits Most?
Some patients need podiatric care more than others. If you have diabetes, your feet are more likely to develop issues like infections or slow-healing wounds, making a podiatry consult a must. Patients undergoing vascular surgeries for PAD also benefit, as their feet are directly affected by blood flow changes. And if you’re facing a surgery that’ll keep you off your feet for weeks, like a major abdominal procedure, a podiatrist can help prevent problems like DVT or pressure sores.
SCMSC’s multidisciplinary team includes Dr. Navid Eghbalieh in interventional radiology, Dr. Babak (Bobby) Eghbalieh in general surgery, and Dr. Sammy Eghbalieh in vascular surgery.
SCMSC’s Commitment to Comprehensive Care
Our multidisciplinary team at SCMSC is what sets us apart. With experts like Dr. Babak Eghbalieh in general surgery, Dr. Sammy Eghbalieh in vascular surgery, and Dr. Navid Eghbalieh in interventional radiology, we cover all bases. Our podiatrists tie it all together by focusing on your foot health, ensuring you leave the hospital stronger. This collaborative approach is why SCMSC is recognized as a top choice for care, as noted by Los Angeles Magazine’s Top Doctors.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let foot problems slow down your recovery. A podiatry consult at SCMSC can make your surgical experience smoother and safer. Call us at (818) 900-6480 to schedule a consultation and see how our team can support you. Visit our podiatry services page or explore second opinion options to learn more about your care.
