[General operative technique of the foot and ankle]

Soft tissue coverage of the foot is more critical than in other orthopedic operation areas. In addition, the foot bears the most mechanical load during walking. Therefore, meticulous operative techniques are of special relevance and tourniquet times must be kept as short as possible. Unnecessary soft tissue dissection must be avoided and electrocautery is not necessary and only damages tissues. Sharp retractors should not be used for the same reason. Osteotomy in three dimensions heals more reliably and inexpensive standard implants can generally be used. Capillary perfusion must be checked following the procedure. A compression dressing avoids postoperative bleeding and swelling. Usually full weight-bearing is possible in a flat postoperative shoe. Postoperative wound coverage must be dry and without ointments or powders.