Keyhole Foot Surgery Australia
What is keyhole foot surgery?
Keyhole foot surgery (aka 'MIS' or 'minimally invasive surgery') has gained significant popularity in the past 5 years over traditional orthopaedic approaches for problems including Bunions, Hammertoes and Flat feet. The highly specialised procedure is only performed by a handful of Australian foot surgeons and requires significant additional training and expertise on top of standard surgical training.
"Keyhole foot surgery provides a modern alternative to traditional surgical techniques"
Our specialist podiatric surgeon Dr Andrew Knox completed training in minimally invasive foot surgery through the Academy of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Surgery in the United States and was the first surgeon to introduce these techniques to Western Australia through his practice Perth Podiatric Surgery in 2018. He has since performed over 500 minimally invasive procedures with good success and high patient satisfaction.
"Minimally invasive bunion surgery is shown to have shorter operating times, improved cosmesis and higher level of patient satisfaction"
(Lam P, Lee M, Xing J, DiNallo M. Percutaneous Surgery for Mild to Moderate Hallux Valgus. Foot Ankle Clin N Am 2016; 21: 459-477.)
How is keyhole foot surgery performed?
Keyhole foot surgery is most akin to laparoscopic surgery, in that the procedure is carried out with only several small incisions being required. Very fine micro burrs (which are used in head and neck surgery) are inserted into the target bone via small 'portals' and the procedure is performed by the surgeon under live x-ray guidance.
What are the benefits of keyhole foot surgery?
The primary benefits of keyhole foot surgery include:
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Immediate weightbearing possible
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Significantly smaller incision
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Minimal disruption to soft tissues
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Less pain and swelling after surgery
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No scarring and less risk of permanent joint stiffness
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Faster return to normal activities and exercise
Patients who have had keyhole procedures performed at our practice anecdotally return to normal activities approximately 50% faster than those who have had open surgery. The primary reason for this is that the operation site is inherently stable as there is minimal disruption to the soft-tissues which surround the bone. Therefore early ambulation and loading of the joint is possible. The risk of other complications developing after surgery such as infection, scarring or stiffness is also reduced as the wound area is small, as compared with the long incisions required in open procedures to expose the bone.
Am I a suitable candidate for keyhole foot surgery?
We recommend booking an appointment to see our specialist for further advice to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure. Your consultation will involve a physical assessment of your foot in conjunction with an x-ray being taken. Other aspects including your general health and fitness to recovery from surgery will be assessed and discussed by our surgeon and anaesthetist prior to your date of surgery.
Take your next steps and book an appointment by phoning 08 9284 3872
Please note:
This website is intended for general information purposes only. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.