At Bayshore Podiatry Center, Dr. James E. Repko, DPM, DABPM and Dr. Saleena Niehaus, DPM, DABPM are board-certified podiatric surgeons specializing in advanced foot and ankle procedures. With 8 years of dedicated practice and thousands of successful surgeries performed, our surgical team provides expert care when conservative treatments haven't provided relief.
Dr. Repko brings unique international expertise to Tampa Bay, having completed an advanced surgical fellowship at the Third Military Hospital of China, where he trained in cutting-edge techniques and complex reconstructive procedures. Both doctors maintain active hospital privileges at HCA South Tampa Hospital and are board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.
When Surgery Becomes the Right Choice
Surgery is never our first recommendation. Based on our clinical experience treating thousands of Tampa Bay patients over 8 years, we typically consider surgical intervention when:
- Conservative treatments have been tried for 6-12 months without significant improvement
- Pain significantly impacts your quality of life or ability to work
- Progressive deformity threatens long-term function
- Acute injuries require immediate surgical stabilization
"In our practice, we've found that patients who are good surgical candidates often see dramatic improvements in both pain and function," says Dr. Repko, whose international fellowship training at the Third Military Hospital of China exposed him to advanced techniques now benefiting Tampa Bay patients.
Conditions We Treat Surgically
Our Tampa foot and ankle surgeons specialize in both common and complex conditions, drawing from thousands of successful procedures:
Forefoot Conditions
- Bunions (Hallux Valgus): Advanced techniques including minimally invasive bunionectomy
- Hammertoe Deformities: Joint-preserving corrections when possible
- Morton's Neuroma: Nerve decompression and neurectomy procedures
- Metatarsal Disorders: Osteotomies and joint preservation techniques
Midfoot & Hindfoot Conditions
- Flatfoot Reconstruction: Comprehensive treatment for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
- Ankle Arthritis: Both joint preservation and total ankle replacement options
- Achilles Tendon Disorders: Repair, reconstruction, and chronic tendinitis treatment
Trauma & Acute Injuries
- Fracture Repair: ORIF (Open Reduction Internal Fixation) procedures
- Ligament Reconstruction: Advanced techniques for ankle instability
- Tendon Repairs: Primary and delayed reconstruction
Complex Reconstructive Cases
- Charcot Foot Reconstruction: Specialized care for diabetic complications
- Revision Surgery: Correcting previous unsuccessful procedures
- Limb Salvage: Advanced techniques to preserve function and avoid amputation
All procedures follow current American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) clinical practice guidelines, enhanced by Dr. Repko's international fellowship training.
Our Surgical Approach: International Expertise, Local Care
Advanced Training Advantage
Dr. Repko's fellowship at the Third Military Hospital of China provides Tampa Bay patients access to:
- International surgical techniques not commonly available in the US
- Complex reconstruction methods for challenging cases
- Minimally invasive approaches learned from global experts
- Advanced trauma management techniques
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Our comprehensive evaluation includes:
- Advanced Imaging: Weight-bearing X-rays, MRI, or CT scans as indicated
- Biomechanical Assessment: Gait analysis and functional testing
- Medical Optimization: Coordination with your primary care physician
- Surgical Planning: 3D planning software for complex reconstructions when appropriate
Minimally Invasive Techniques
When clinically appropriate, we utilize:
- Percutaneous procedures with smaller incisions
- Arthroscopic techniques for joint preservation
- Advanced fixation methods for faster healing
- International techniques from Dr. Repko's fellowship training
What to Expect: Your Surgical Journey
Before Surgery
- Comprehensive Medical Clearance: Working with your healthcare team
- Pre-operative Education: Detailed explanation of your specific procedure
- Recovery Planning: Arranging necessary equipment and support
- Insurance Authorization: Our team handles pre-authorization requirements
Day of Surgery
Most procedures are performed at HCA South Tampa Hospital with:
- Board-certified anesthesiologists
- State-of-the-art surgical suites
- Advanced monitoring and safety protocols
- Full hospital privileges ensuring seamless care
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines based on our 8 years of clinical experience and thousands of procedures:
- Minor procedures: 2-6 weeks return to normal activities
- Moderate procedures: 6-12 weeks for full recovery
- Major reconstructions: 3-6 months for complete healing
Typical recovery protocol includes:
- Immediate post-op: Protected weight-bearing in surgical shoe or cast
- 2-6 weeks: Transition to weight-bearing as healing progresses
- 6+ weeks: Physical therapy initiation when appropriate
- 3-6 months: Return to full activities including sports
Recovery timelines are individualized based on procedure complexity, patient health, and healing response.
Why Choose Bayshore Podiatry Center?
Proven Expertise
- Board certifications in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery
- International fellowship training at Third Military Hospital of China (Dr. Repko)
- 8 years of dedicated practice with thousands of successful surgeries
- Active hospital privileges at HCA South Tampa Hospital
- Continuing education in latest surgical innovations
Comprehensive Care
- Same practice, complete care: From diagnosis through full recovery
- 24/7 post-operative support for urgent concerns
- HCA South Tampa Hospital privileges for seamless surgical care
- Coordination of care with physical therapy and other specialists
- Independent medical evaluations and expert witness services available
Unique International Perspective
"My fellowship training in China exposed me to surgical techniques and approaches that I now bring to Tampa Bay patients," explains Dr. Repko. "This international experience, combined with our 8 years of local practice and thousands of procedures, allows us to offer treatment options that may not be available elsewhere in the region."
Patient-Centered Approach
"Our goal isn't just successful surgery—it's getting patients back to the activities they love," explains Dr. Niehaus. "Over our 8 years of practice, we've seen patients return to marathon running, return to work without pain, and regain confidence in their mobility."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I need surgery? A: Based on our experience with thousands of patients over 8 years, those who benefit most from surgery have tried conservative treatment for at least 3-6 months without adequate relief and have realistic expectations about outcomes.
Q: What makes your surgical approach different? A: Dr. Repko's international fellowship training at the Third Military Hospital of China, combined with our 8 years of Tampa Bay experience, provides access to advanced techniques while maintaining the highest safety standards at HCA South Tampa Hospital.
Q: What are the risks? A: While complications are rare in our practice, we discuss all potential risks including infection, nerve injury, and incomplete pain relief during your consultation.
Q: Will I need time off work? A: This depends on your job and procedure. Office workers typically return in 1-2 weeks, while those requiring standing/walking may need 4-8 weeks.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you're experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain that's affecting your quality of life, our internationally trained Tampa Bay surgical team is here to help. We offer:
- Same-day appointments for urgent cases
- Comprehensive evaluations with advanced imaging
- Second opinions on previous surgical recommendations
- Insurance verification and pre-authorization assistance
- Surgical care at HCA South Tampa Hospital
Serving Tampa Bay communities including Hyde Park, Davis Islands, MacDill Air Force Base, and surrounding areas.
