INTRODUCTION TO MINIMALLY INVASIVE FOOT SURGERY

What is “Minimally Invasive Foot Surgery”?

This is a surgical technique where the operation is performed through very small incisions, only a few millimeters long. This is in contrast to traditional surgery, which is performed through large incisions on the foot.

What are the advantages?

Minimally Invasive Surgery has perceived advantages over open surgery:

• Smaller Incisions are made
• Fast healing time
• Minimal Scar
• Less swelling and discomfort

 What conditions can be treated with MIS?

This technique is particularly useful in bunion surgery, where very small scars and better joint movement can be achieved. Other conditions and deformities include Hammertoes, heel pain, metatarsalgia, neuroma, stiff big toe, diabetic foot ulcerations, and so on.

How is minimally invasive foot surgery performed?

The foot is numbed using an ankle block like traditional surgery and you can be awake or asleep, depending on your preference. A few 3mm incisions are placed around the foot to allow access to the specialized instruments. A radiologic precision diagnostic machine is integral to the operation to ensure the instruments are directed accurately, ensuring precise bony cuts and therefore an excellent correction.

Can any surgeon perform this kind of surgery?

No. Precise training in minimally invasive techniques is required and these training courses have restricted access. A new range of surgical tools, not normally used in traditional open surgery are used and these require a new set of technical skills in order to master the different surgical techniques. This requires training and experience. Not all foot and ankle surgeons perform minimally invasive foot surgery.

Is it for me?

Most people are eligible to have minimally invasive surgery, however, it is not for everyone. Some deformities are too significant to be corrected using minimally invasive techniques. A consultation with us will allow you to discuss this in detail and decide which method of foot correction is appropriate for you.

Importantly, the form of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) we have developed is founded on long-established approaches to foot surgery. This means the patient’s recovery and the outcome are very controlled and predictable. However, we are able to achieve this outcome while reducing the impact on bone structure and soft tissues.