Tim Millar is a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon in Lancaster and Kendal and provides a general lower limb surgery and fracture service. In addition he has undertaken further specialist training in foot and ankle disorders and works as part of a multi-disciplinary team both within the NHS and private sector.

 

Initially, for the majority of conditions, a trial of non-operative treatment measures often with help from orthotists and physiotherapists would be recommended. The majority of conditions will be improved by these measures.

 

Where conservative measures fail to control symptoms the surgical options, when indicated, will be discussed with you. Due to potential complications, surgical intervention is only normally recommended for moderate to severe symptoms, with functional impairment and when all other measures have been tried. If symptoms are mild or intermittent with no major functional issues, the risks of surgery are likely to outweigh the benefit.

 

The risks of surgery and the expected recovery period will be carefully explained to you as part of the consent process. Often, especially with foot and ankle surgery, there can be a prolonged recovery period and, although the vast majority of patients do well, not everyone will be helped by surgical treatment.

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Although rare, symptoms can be made worse with surgery. Some of these problems, such as complex pain syndrome, may not have a straight forward surgical fix. These factors must be borne in mind when planning care.

 

Most of the common foot and ankle procedures have a success (improvement in symptoms) rate of about 90%. 

 

If we are unable to diagnose or manage your condition we will ensure that you are referred for a further opinion when this is indicated or if you wish to have a second opinion this can be arranged. For more complex conditions it is often helpful to obtain further opinions as part of a multi disciplinary approach.

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Patients with end stage ankle arthritis, who may benefit from a total ankle replacement, will normally be discussed in our local ankle arthritis network. If a total ankle replacement is decided upon I will carry this out as a dual consultant procedure. Complex ankle replacement patients or revision cases will usually be referred to Wrightington Hospital for a further opinion as their foot and ankle team have greater expertise with these cases.

 

The majority of younger patients with end stage ankle arthritis will be offered an arthroscopic ankle fusion if all other options have been tried. More information regarding these options can be obtained by visiting www.anklearthritis.co.uk or www.bofas.org.uk

 

This website has been created to better inform patients about the various treatment options available as part of the joint decision making process. Mr Millar is committed to providing a high quality, patient focused service in a relaxed and friendly environment and we welcome feedback in order to improve the service.

 

Often trauma and orthopaedic clinics are busy and you may feel that you need extra time to discuss your care. I apologise if this was the case. Please let us know and we will arrange another appointment.

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Local GPs may wish to obtain specialist foot and ankle advice for their patients through the advice and guidance service prior to referral. 

 

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