Move Without Pain: Scripps Advances Foot and Ankle Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons help patients get back on their feet faster
Orthopedic surgeons help patients get back on their feet faster
It’s easy to take our feet and ankles for granted — until something goes wrong. Scripps orthopedic surgeons are on the leading edge of foot and ankle reconstruction, with several new, innovative procedures to help get patients back on their feet.
“It’s not just about being able to run or jump around. It’s about being able to get yourself from point A to point B without pain,” says Cameron Barr, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and head of the Division of Foot and Ankle Surgery at Scripps Clinic. “People don’t realize how vital the small joints in the foot and ankle can be. When they’re not working correctly, it affects a person’s quality of life.”
Scripps’ orthopedic specialists treat patients of all ages with sports injuries, deformities, traumatic injuries and other conditions. While some of their work has similarities to that of podiatrists, their specialized surgical training allows them to address all aspects of musculoskeletal care “from the tips of the toes all the way up the leg,” Dr. Barr explains.
Less invasive approach to Achilles tendon repair
This comprehensive expertise also includes repairing torn Achilles tendons with a minimally invasive procedure called Percutaneous Achilles Repair System (PARS). PARS shrinks the incision site to less than a centimeter, says Jacob Braunstein, MD, orthopedic surgeon, Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines and Scripps Clinic Jefferson in Oceanside.
Beyond cosmetic benefit, a smaller incision significantly lowers the risk of infections, a potential complication of Achilles surgery. The procedure also reduces recovery time, cutting the typical 12-month healing process in half in some cases.
“By working through a smaller incision, we’re preserving the blood supply around the Achilles tendon to much greater effect, and that seems like it is making a big difference,” Dr. Braunstein says.
Minimally invasive ankle replacement surgery
In addition to Achilles tendon surgery, orthopedic specialists are using minimally invasive techniques in the treatment of bunions, arthritis and other conditions with similar benefits.
Some Scripps patients with ankle arthritis may be eligible for advanced ankle replacement surgery. The procedure is similar to a modern hip or knee replacement, preserves ankle motion and allows patients to walk more naturally with minimal downtime.
Orthopedic specialists perform ankle replacement surgery as an alternative to ankle fusion, which locks the bones together, reduces range of motion and can put additional pressure on surrounding joints.
Additionally, surgeons are also able to better preserve ankle cartilage using stem cells to augment traditional interventions.
“At Scripps we have the resources, dedication and expertise to look at issues from all angles,” says Dr. Barr. “We strive to provide the best level of care, and that’s how we help patients achieve the best outcomes.”
This content appeared in San Diego Health, a publication in partnership between Scripps and San Diego Magazine that celebrates the healthy spirit of San Diego.