Risks of Foot/Ankle Surgery Surgery is a significant stress on the body. There are risks of surgery, which also include the risk of anesthesia. Surgery should only be carried forth if you understand and accept the risks listed below. The risks include but are not limited to infection, blood loss, damage to the adjacent nerves, arteries, and veins, nonunion (failure of bones to unite/heal), malunion (bones uniting/healing in an imperfect position), need for further surgery, scarring, or persistent pain. Major risks include but are not limited to: stroke, heart attack, nerve damage, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolus (PE), amputation, and death. If you are a smoker, you are more likely to have a postoperative wound complication. For your safety, please share any complications with past surgeries or procedures that you have experienced, with your surgeon before your scheduled surgery.