What is keyhole surgery? And what are its benefits?
Keyhole surgery, a term used colloquially to describe minimally invasive procedures, has become a game-changer in the realm of foot and ankle treatments. In simple terms, keyhole surgery involves small incisions, offering significant advantages over traditional open surgeries, such as reduced post-operative pain, quicker healing, shorter hospital stays, minimal disruption of soft tissues, and decreased risks of certain complications.
Here is a recap of the medical terms used for keyhole surgery
- arthroscopy: This technique involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) into the affected joint, allowing for a detailed examination of the structures within the foot and ankle.
- endoscopy: Similar to arthroscopy, endoscopy utilises a small tube with a camera to visualise and treat internal issues without the need for extensive incisions.
- minimally Invasive Surgery (MI or MIS): A broad term encompassing various techniques that involve smaller incisions and less tissue disruption compared to open surgery.
- percutaneous: This method involves accessing the treatment area through the skin with minimal incisions, reducing the impact on surrounding tissues.
What are the benefits of these techniques?
While each technique has its unique features, the overarching benefits of keyhole surgery for foot and ankle treatments include:
- Less Post-operative Pain: Smaller incisions result in reduced trauma to tissues, leading to less pain during the recovery phase.
- Faster Healing: Minimizing the extent of tissue disruption accelerates the healing process, allowing patients to resume normal activities sooner.
- Shorter Hospital Stay: Keyhole procedures often enable a quicker recovery, translating into shorter hospital stays and less disruption to daily life.
- Minimal Disruption of Soft Tissues: Unlike open surgery, keyhole procedures involve minimal disturbance to surrounding soft tissues, preserving the overall structure and function of the foot and ankle.
- Reduced Risks of Complications: The smaller incisions and focused approach in keyhole surgery contribute to a lower risk of certain complications, enhancing overall safety for patients.
Applications in foot and ankle treatments
Keyhole surgery is employed in various foot and ankle conditions, including:
- Arthritis: Arthroscopy aids in diagnosing and treating arthritis, preserving joint function.
- Tendon Disorders: Endoscopic and percutaneous techniques are valuable for addressing tendon issues with precision.
- Joint Deformities: Minimally invasive surgery proves effective in correcting joint deformities without extensive scarring.
- Sports Injuries: Keyhole procedures are frequently utilised for the prompt and targeted treatment of sports-related foot and ankle injuries.
Recognising the signs and symptoms of these conditions is crucial for seeking timely medical attention. Mr Francesc Malagelada is dedicated to diagnosing and treating various foot and ankle conditions, providing personalised treatment plans to address your specific needs and help you get back on your feet comfortably. Contact us and book an appointment today!
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This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your physician for personalised guidance. In case of a medical emergency, contact your doctor or emergency services.