Flat feet, also known as pes planus, can cause mobility issues and discomfort, ultimately affecting a patient’s quality of life. With advancements in the medical field, minimally invasive flat foot surgery has become the best approach for treating this condition. Apart from minimal pain, the patients can count on returning to everyday activities very quickly.
The patient is put under general or local anesthesia during a minimally invasive flat foot surgery. Three incisions are made in the ankle and foot to reach the tendon to correct the patient’s ankle joint. Sometimes screws are used, or small inserts for arch elevation, so less swelling and pain are expected.
What Is Flat Foot (Pes Planus)?
When an individual has flat feet, medically referred to as pes planus, the sole of the feet comes into contact with the ground since the arches of the feet are reduced or absent. The arches act as natural shock absorbers during running, walking, and standing. Flat feet are bad since arches that develop poorly cause symptoms such as instability, fatigue, and pain.
What Does Minimally Invasive Flat Foot Surgery Include?
Minimally invasive flat foot surgery is performed to remodel the foot and improve the arch. With just three incisions, the surgeon can realign the ankle and heel bone and reduce the pressure on the soles of the feet. When affected tendons are treated, there needs to be a plate or metal screw added so that the foot gets appropriate arch elevation.
How Does It Differ From Traditional Flat Foot Surgery?
In minimally invasive surgeries, the surgeon makes small incisions that are often less than an inch in size, which helps reduce disruption to the surrounding healthy tendons, ligaments, and tissue. Additionally, only necessary screws are used to rebuild the arch.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for the Minimally Invasive Approach?
Individuals who are well-suited for this approach have certain characteristics that provide higher chances of success. Here are some factors that can help identify the ideal candidate:
- Mild to moderate flat foot deformity,
- Absence of particular complications such as severe osteoarthritis in the foot,
- Candidates who are unresponsive to conservative treatment,
- Good overall health.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery
The advantage of this type of procedure is that it is a high-reward and low-risk surgery that can restore full mobility. Fixing flat feet and eliminating the discomfort and pain can be done with limited trauma.
Shorter Recovery Time and Reduced Scarring
With specific cutting-edge medical instruments and techniques, surgeons can be successful at repairing only the problematic tendons without putting stress on the healthy tissue. The incisions are very small, which won’t leave any scars behind. The recovery process is smooth, and you’ll soon find yourself in running shoes again.
Less Post-Operative Pain and Complications
It’s important to stress that less invasive surgeries offer less post-operative pain and a more manageable recovery. The risk of complications, such as wound healing issues and infections, is reduced. This promotes a quicker return to normal activities.
What Is the Average Cost of the Procedure?
The average price of a minimally invasive flat foot surgery ranges between $3,500 and $6,000. The costs are determined by the location of the clinic, the type of anesthesia used, surgeon’s fees, and post-operative care. The costs can be increased due to the severity of the deformity.
Is it Covered by the Insurance?
Is the surgery medically necessary for you? If yes, most insurance providers will allow for the procedure to be partially or fully covered. It’s necessary for the patient to always check with the insurance provider before scheduling the surgery.
Talk to Your Doctor in Miami and Schedule the Procedure ASAP
Has this deformity negatively affected your life? The throbbing pain while standing and walking can be stopped once and for all with innovative and minimally invasive surgery. Make sure that our doctor diagnoses you and provides the perfect care for your condition. At Luxe Foot Surgery clinic, all of your questions will be answered. Contact us right away to get back to living a healthy life.
References
- Healthline: All About Surgery for Flat Feet: Pros and Cons
- Mis Foot Surgery: Minimally Invasive Flatfoot Surgery
- Luxe Foot Surgery: Flat Feet Surgery Miami
