020 3960 1705
Consultant Foot & Ankle Surgeon in London
Shelain Patel - BSc, MBBS, MRCS, DipSEM, FRCS (Tr&Orth)
Specialist Foot & Ankle Care in London
Mr Shelain Patel is a Consultant Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon with a specialist practice dedicated exclusively to disorders of the foot and ankle. He is a Consultant at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH), a national tertiary referral centre for complex orthopaedic conditions, where he treats patients with challenging arthritis, deformity, sports injuries and complex foot and ankle problems referred from across the UK. His specialist training includes dedicated foot and ankle fellowships at Windsor and the RNOH, together with international fellowship experience at recognised centres of excellence in the USA and Europe. His clinical practice encompasses the full spectrum of foot and ankle surgery, with particular expertise in ankle arthritis and total ankle replacement, complex foot and ankle reconstruction, ankle instability, Achilles tendon disorders, sports injuries, bunions, flat-foot and cavus deformity, osteochondral lesions and revision surgery.
Alongside his clinical practice, Mr Patel has an established academic and educational role, with more than 80 peer-reviewed publications, book chapters and consensus publications, involvement in foot and ankle research at the RNOH, previous national committee involvement with the British Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (BOFAS), peer-review activity for orthopaedic journals and a recognised role in training the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons. This combination of highly specialised clinical practice, tertiary referral experience, academic research and surgical education allows Mr Patel to provide evidence-based assessment and treatment for both common and complex foot and ankle conditions.
Areas of Mr Shelain Patel's Specialist Expertise
Ankle Replacement & Arthritis
Complex Reconstruction
Achilles & Sports Injuries
Bunions & Forefoot Surgery
Flat Foot & Cavus Deformity
Ankle Instability
Osteochondral Lesions
Revision Surgery
Conditions Treated
Mr Shelain Patel treats the full range of orthopaedic conditions affecting the foot and ankle, from common problems such as bunions and ankle sprains to complex arthritis, deformity and sports-related injuries requiring specialist reconstruction. His practice includes the assessment and treatment of ankle arthritis, Achilles tendon disorders, ankle instability, ankle fractures, osteochondral lesions of the talus, bunions, big toe arthritis, Morton’s neuroma, metatarsalgia, flat feet, cavus foot and complex foot and ankle deformity.
Particular areas of specialist interest include ankle arthritis and total ankle replacement, complex foot and ankle reconstruction, Achilles tendon disorders, sports injuries, ankle instability and adult acquired flat foot. Mr Patel also manages patients who have persistent symptoms following previous surgery or injury and those requiring revision or complex reconstructive procedures.
Treatment is tailored to the individual patient and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, footwear and orthotic treatment, injections, medication or surgery. Where surgery is appropriate, the aim is to select the procedure that best addresses the underlying problem while considering the patient's activity level, expectations, overall health and long-term function.
Common foot and ankle conditions treated:
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Ankle arthritis
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Ankle instability and recurrent ankle sprains
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Achilles tendon rupture and tendinopathy
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Ankle fractures and post-traumatic problems
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Osteochondral lesions of the talus
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Bunions and hallux valgus
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Big toe arthritis and hallux rigidus
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Morton’s neuroma
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Metatarsalgia
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Adult acquired flat foot
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Cavus foot and high-arched deformity
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Tendon disorders of the foot and ankle
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Complex foot and ankle deformity
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Sports-related foot and ankle injuries
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Problems following previous foot and ankle surgery
Each condition page provides further information about symptoms, investigations, non-operative treatment, surgical options and expected recovery.
Foot & Ankle Surgery
When surgery is required, Mr Patel provides specialist orthopaedic foot and ankle surgery across a broad range of conditions. His surgical practice includes total ankle replacement, ankle fusion, ankle arthroscopy, Achilles tendon surgery, ankle ligament reconstruction, bunion surgery, flat foot reconstruction, cavus foot reconstruction, osteochondral lesion surgery and complex foot and ankle reconstruction.
Foot and ankle surgery often involves several possible treatment options rather than a single procedure. Mr Patel discusses the available alternatives during consultation, including the potential benefits, limitations, risks and expected recovery associated with each approach. Surgery is recommended when the potential benefits are considered appropriate for the patient's symptoms, functional requirements and individual circumstances.
For complex conditions, treatment may involve combining several procedures during the same operation to restore alignment, stability and function. This is particularly relevant in patients with advanced arthritis, significant deformity, tendon dysfunction or previous unsuccessful surgery.
Mr Patel also has an interest in the management of patients requiring revision foot and ankle surgery, where previous treatment has not produced the expected result. These cases often require detailed review of previous operations, weight-bearing imaging and, where appropriate, advanced CT or MRI assessment before a treatment plan is formulated.
The decision to proceed with surgery is always individualised. Non-operative treatment remains an important part of specialist foot and ankle care, and surgery is considered when it offers a reasonable prospect of improving pain, function or quality of life.
Ankle Replacement Surgery in London
Mr Shelain Patel has a specialist interest in ankle arthritis and total ankle replacement surgery and treats patients with painful ankle arthritis in London. Ankle replacement is an established treatment option for selected patients with advanced ankle arthritis and is designed to relieve pain while preserving movement at the ankle joint.
Ankle arthritis can develop following previous ankle fractures or ligament injuries, as a result of inflammatory arthritis or because of gradual degeneration of the joint. Symptoms commonly include pain during walking or exercise, stiffness, swelling and reduced ability to participate in activities that were previously possible.
Not every patient with ankle arthritis requires an ankle replacement. Depending on the severity and pattern of arthritis, symptoms and individual circumstances, treatment may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication, injections, bracing or other non-operative measures. When these treatments no longer provide adequate relief, surgical options may include total ankle replacement or ankle fusion.
During consultation, Mr Patel assesses the extent and location of arthritis, ankle alignment, bone quality, ligament stability and the condition of the surrounding foot. Weight-bearing X-rays and, when appropriate, CT or MRI scans may be used to plan treatment.
For suitable patients, total ankle replacement can provide pain relief while retaining movement through the ankle joint. However, ankle replacement is not appropriate for everyone, and careful patient selection is important. Mr Patel will discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of replacement compared with fusion and explain the expected rehabilitation, longevity and potential complications of each option.
His clinical and academic interest in ankle arthritis also includes the evaluation of outcomes following ankle replacement and the use of evidence-based approaches to improve the treatment of patients with advanced ankle disease.
Complex Foot & Ankle Reconstruction
Complex foot and ankle reconstruction involves the assessment and treatment of patients with significant deformity, instability, arthritis, tendon dysfunction, previous trauma or problems following earlier surgery. These conditions may affect the alignment of the foot and ankle, the ability to walk comfortably and the patient's ability to participate in work, sport or everyday activities.
Mr Patel has particular expertise in complex foot and ankle reconstruction, including reconstruction for adult acquired flat foot, cavus foot, ankle instability, post-traumatic deformity and advanced arthritis. Depending on the underlying problem, reconstruction may involve a combination of procedures addressing bone alignment, tendon function, ligament stability and joint pathology.
Examples include calcaneal osteotomy, tendon reconstruction or transfer, ligament reconstruction, midfoot or hindfoot fusion, corrective osteotomy and ankle replacement or fusion. The precise combination of procedures is determined by the individual's deformity and functional requirements rather than by a standardised operation.
Patients who have undergone previous surgery can present additional challenges because of altered anatomy, scar tissue, previous implants, bone loss or persistent deformity. These cases require careful assessment of the original diagnosis, previous procedures and current mechanical alignment before further treatment is considered.
Mr Patel works within a multidisciplinary environment at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, particularly for complex cases where input from specialist radiologists, physiotherapists, orthotists and other orthopaedic colleagues may be valuable.
The objective of reconstruction is not simply to correct an X-ray abnormality. Treatment aims to achieve a stable, plantigrade and functional foot and ankle while reducing pain and allowing the patient to return to appropriate daily and sporting activities.
Where I See Patients in London
Mr Shelain Patel sees private patients at selected specialist hospitals and clinics in London and the surrounding area, providing access to consultant-led foot and ankle assessment, investigation and treatment.
His practice is centred around Central London and North London, with consultations available at locations including The London Clinic, RNOH Private Care in Stanmore and Bolsover Street, and HCA Elstree, subject to the availability of appointments and the requirements of individual patients.
These locations provide access to specialist diagnostic imaging, physiotherapy and multidisciplinary support where required. Patients can discuss the most appropriate location for their consultation when arranging an appointment.
Mr Patel also works as a Consultant Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) in Stanmore, one of the UK's specialist centres for complex orthopaedic conditions.
For patients travelling from outside London or from overseas, consultations can be coordinated with appropriate imaging and investigations to minimise unnecessary journeys where possible.
Why Patients Are Referred to Mr Patel
Patients are referred to Mr Shelain Patel for specialist assessment when they have a foot or ankle problem that requires consultant orthopaedic expertise, particularly where the diagnosis is complex, symptoms have persisted despite non-operative treatment or previous treatment has not achieved the desired result.
As a Consultant Foot & Ankle Surgeon at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Mr Patel regularly assesses patients with complex arthritis, deformity, sports injuries, tendon disorders, ankle instability and problems following previous surgery or trauma. His practice is dedicated exclusively to foot and ankle conditions.
Patients may be referred for a second opinion regarding a proposed operation, to discuss alternative treatment options or to determine whether surgery is appropriate. This can be particularly valuable where there are several possible treatment strategies, such as deciding between ankle replacement and ankle fusion, determining whether flat foot reconstruction is required, or assessing persistent symptoms following previous surgery.
Mr Patel combines his clinical practice with an established academic and teaching role. His research interests include foot and ankle reconstruction, ankle arthritis, ankle replacement and patient-reported outcomes, and he has published extensively in peer-reviewed orthopaedic literature.
Referrals are accepted from GPs, physiotherapists, other orthopaedic surgeons, sports physicians and other healthcare professionals, as well as patients seeking a specialist opinion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a foot and ankle surgeon treat?
A foot and ankle surgeon is an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in conditions affecting the foot, ankle and associated bones, joints, tendons and ligaments. This includes problems such as ankle arthritis, Achilles tendon disorders, ankle instability, bunions, flat feet, sports injuries, fractures and complex deformity.
When should I see a foot and ankle surgeon?
You may benefit from specialist assessment if pain or reduced function persists despite appropriate non-operative treatment, if you have significant deformity, recurrent ankle instability, an injury that is not improving or imaging that shows significant structural damage. A specialist assessment can also help when you have been advised that surgery may be necessary and would like to discuss the available options.
Does every foot or ankle problem require surgery?
No. Many foot and ankle conditions can be managed successfully without surgery. Treatment may include physiotherapy, activity modification, footwear changes, orthotics, medication or injections. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain significant and the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks.
What is the difference between an ankle replacement and ankle fusion?
Both procedures can be used to treat advanced ankle arthritis. Ankle replacement replaces the damaged joint surfaces and aims to preserve ankle movement, whereas ankle fusion joins the bones of the ankle joint to eliminate movement at the arthritic joint. The most appropriate treatment depends on factors including the patient's age, activity level, alignment, bone quality, ligament stability and pattern of arthritis.
How long does recovery take after foot and ankle surgery?
Recovery varies considerably depending on the procedure and the individual patient. Some operations allow relatively rapid return to normal activities, while complex reconstruction may require several months of rehabilitation. Mr Patel will provide a personalised recovery plan and explain restrictions on weight-bearing, driving, work and sport following surgery.
Can I get a second opinion?
Yes. Mr Patel regularly assesses patients seeking a second opinion about a diagnosis or proposed treatment. A second opinion can be particularly useful when surgery is being considered or when symptoms have persisted despite previous treatment.
Do I need an MRI or CT scan before my appointment?
Not necessarily. The appropriate investigations depend on the suspected diagnosis. Weight-bearing X-rays are often particularly useful for foot and ankle conditions, while CT and MRI scans may be recommended when additional information is required. If you already have relevant imaging, you should bring the images and reports to your consultation.
Do you see patients privately in London?
Yes. Mr Patel sees private patients at selected hospitals and clinics in Central and North London. Details of current consultation locations and appointments are available through the contact page.
Do you accept referrals from GPs and physiotherapists?
Yes. Mr Patel accepts referrals from GPs, physiotherapists, sports physicians, orthopaedic surgeons and other healthcare professionals. Patients can also arrange a consultation directly.
Can I have a consultation for a second opinion without committing to surgery?
Yes. A consultation provides an opportunity to establish the diagnosis, review investigations and discuss both surgical and non-surgical options. A decision about surgery does not need to be made during the first consultation.