Ankle problems can not only be painful but also frustrating when they limit your movement and regular activities. For those who needed surgery, this often required surgery that meant long recovery times, infection risks, and noticeable scarring.
Today, minimally invasive surgery is transforming the way ankle conditions are treated. Plymouth Podiatry explains how this new technique offers faster healing, smaller incisions, and less discomfort.
Understanding Minimally Invasive Foot Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery is a precise technique that uses smaller incisions, potentially leading to less pain and fewer hospital days. Surgeons will use small, specialized instruments and cameras to guide them as they work. This causes less traumatic damage to the body as a whole because fewer surrounding tissues are affected.
Minimally invasive surgery also reduces the amount of blood loss you might otherwise experience, and often lowers your risk of post-surgical infections.
Common Ankle Problems Treated with Minimally Invasive Techniques
When it comes to ankle problems, minimally invasive foot surgery is most commonly used to treat the following:
- Bone spurs or arthritis
- Chronic ankle instability
- Torn ligaments or tendons
- Fractures or cartilage damage
Note that not all ankle problems require surgery. If you’re curious about whether your particular ankle issue might benefit from minimally invasive surgery, speak with your podiatrist.
What Happens During the Procedure
If you and your ankle doctor have decided that a minimally invasive procedure is right for you, here is what you can expect on the day of your surgery.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Your surgeon will provide you with a local numbing agent or light sedation.
- The surgeon then makes several small incisions around the site of the problem.
- A small surgical camera is inserted into one of the incisions so the ankle doctor can locate the problem and observe the work being done via an attached monitor.
- Sometimes, a saline or other sterile solution will be injected into the site to gently widen the problem area. This makes it easier for the doctor to work.
- Using the small surgical instruments and attached monitor, the surgeon will fix your ankle problem.
- Once finished, all instruments and cameras are removed from the site, and your incisions are closed and bandaged.
Depending on the type of ankle problem and the complexity of your surgery, you may be able to go home the same day. It’s often recommended that another adult be available to drive you home.
The Benefits of a Smaller Approach
Because the surgeon doesn’t have to make large incisions in your foot, ankle, and leg, you’ll likely experience less pain and swelling after your surgery. Smaller incisions also mean a faster recovery time, so you can return to your regular daily activities much sooner. And aesthetically speaking, you’ll have smaller (if any) scars at the site of the surgery.
Recovery and What to Expect After Surgery
Even if you’re able to go home the day of your surgery, your doctor will probably instruct you to get plenty of rest, avoid putting weight on the treated foot/ankle, and take over-the-counter pain medicines for any initial aches.
Further instructions, including when you can bear weight, resume regular activities, or undergo physical therapy, will depend on the nature and complexity of your surgery. Your doctor will give you instructions and a timeline for what to do and when. We strongly encourage you to follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid complications that can undo the healing process.
Is Minimally Invasive Surgery Right For You?
While minimally invasive ankle surgery offers many advantages, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your doctor will consider factors such as the type and severity of your injury, the condition of your bones and soft tissues, previous treatments you’ve tried, and your overall health. For example, minimally invasive surgery may be ideal for patients with minor ligament damage or small bone spurs. However, severe fractures or advanced arthritis often require different types of surgery or care.
If surgery appears to be an option, your podiatrist will begin with a detailed review of your medical history to identify any prior injuries, surgeries, or underlying health conditions that may impact your post-surgical healing. They’ll likely perform a full physical examination to assess swelling, stability, range of motion, and your pain response. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, may be ordered to provide a detailed examination.
Remember that a caring, qualified surgeon will always discuss your options with you before ordering you to have any kind of surgical procedure.
FAQ About Minimally Invasive Ankle Surgery:
Q: How long does it take to recover from minimally invasive ankle surgery?
A: Recovery times vary, but most patients experience faster healing than with traditional surgery. Many people can return to normal activities within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the procedure.
Q: Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
A: In most cases, yes. Physical therapy helps your ankle regain strength, balance, and mobility after surgery.
Q: Is minimally invasive surgery more expensive?
A: Costs depend on the procedure and insurance coverage. However, minimally invasive surgery usually reduces overall costs by shortening your recovery time and lowering the risk of complications.
Q: How do I know if surgery is my best option?
A: Only your podiatrist can evaluate your condition, discuss treatment options, and help you make an informed decision.
Plymouth Podiatry: Expert Ankle Doctors
For over 30 years, ankle surgeons at Plymouth Podiatry have helped patients recover from foot and ankle pain and go on to live their best lives. Whether you’ve been experiencing chronic ankle pain for many years or have a new injury, our experts will take the time to examine the problem and offer the best solutions.
Contact us online, or call one of our offices at (866) 536-4446 (Plymouth) or (508) 936-3028 (Raynham) to speak with us about how we can help you.