Most patients having any type of surgery prefer to have a procedure that’s as minimally invasive as possible, and this is also true with any foot surgery in Newport Beach.
It’s increasingly common for endoscopic procedures to be used in order to remove excessive scar tissue or redundant cartilage from a joint in the foot. This procedure is referred to as “arthritic joint debridement”. Heel spurs may also be removed with this form of endoscopic surgery. Another reason for endoscopic foot surgery in Rancho Santa Margarita is to correct damage to ligaments affected by a severe foot or ankle sprain. The same endoscopic techniques may be used to correct issues with damaged articular cartilage around the big toe joint.
Patients with chronic plantar fasciitis may benefit from an endoscopic plantar fasciotomy (EPF). It’s performed to release part of the plantar fascia ligament to ease tension and reduce inflammation. Success rates for this procedure are above 80% based on results that have been reported in various studies.
Prior to recommending endoscopic foot surgery, the affected foot or ankle is typically examined thoroughly to determine if a less invasive approach to surgery is the right option. This process usually includes CT scans, x-rays, or other types of image tests.
Generally, patients are advised to stop eating solid foods about 12 hours before endoscopic surgery for the smoothest procedure.
It’s also important for patients to disclose all medications they are taking, especially NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and similar drugs that may increase bleeding risks.
Most foot endoscopies, including ones done for both diagnostic and treatment purposes, are outpatient procedures. The specific approach to endoscopic foot surgery in Newport Beach will depend on what part of the foot is being operated on and what needs to be done. However, the general approach to this type of surgery involves small incisions instead of larger ones. A special flexible tube with a light and lens attached to it (called an endoscope) is inserted into one of the small incisions made in the affected foot.
The surgeon will be able to view the affected area in greater detail with the scope. Special instruments are then used to perform the intended procedure on the affected part of the foot or ankle. After surgery is completed, the small incisions may be closed with stitches or a special type of glue (“liquid stitches”). Most endoscopic procedures are done with a sedative. However, general anesthesia may be used for more extensive foot surgery or for younger patients.
With most endoscopic foot procedures, there will be a need to keep pressure off the affected foot for a certain period of time to allow tissues and/or foot bones or joints to heal. This may be accomplished with the use of crutches or a cam boot.
Medication is sometimes prescribed if there is lingering discomfort during the healing/recovery period. Physical therapy that typically includes therapeutic exercises and stretches may be recommended to help strengthen muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the foot that was operated on. During a follow-up visit, x-rays may be done to make sure the affected foot is healing properly.
While there are many possible benefits associated with endoscopic foot surgery, it’s not right for every foot problem or patient. A foot and ankle specialist can determine if you may benefit from a minimally invasive technique. Even if a less invasive type of operation ends up not being the best option for your situation, an endoscopy may still be performed for diagnostic purposes to get a better idea of what’s going on with specific bones, joints, or soft tissues in your foot.
If you’re seeking endoscopic foot surgery in the Rancho Santa Margarita and Newport Beach area, we can help. Our team at Dr. Salma Aziz, Foot and Ankle Speciality Group Inc. is a nurturing female surgeon group with the mission of getting our patients back to their activities and life. In business for 20 years, Dr. Salma Aziz, Foot, and Ankle Speciality Group Inc. is a podiatrist office in Newport Beach founded by American Board of Podiatric Surgery Fellow Dr. Salma Aziz, D.P.M, M.S. Our team is rounded out by Dr. Petrina Yokay and Dr. Jessica Arneson. With a reputation built on time-tested practices, our modern, family-friendly practice provides outstanding care and an exceptional patient experience.
