MIS Foot Surgery

The Latest Surgical Techniques

Dr. Farajian is one of the few surgeons in the SoCal area to be trained and certified in MIS foot surgery.

Minimally invasive foot surgery, also known as MIS foot surgery, is a surgical technique that uses specialized instruments and small incisions to treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions. Here are some potential benefits of minimally invasive foot surgery:

1. Smaller incisions: One of the main benefits of minimally invasive foot surgery is that it requires smaller incisions than traditional open surgery. This can result in less scarring, less pain, and a shorter recovery time.
2. Reduced risk of complications: Because minimally invasive foot surgery involves smaller incisions and less tissue damage, there is a reduced risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage.
3. Quicker recovery: Minimally invasive foot surgery typically requires a shorter recovery time than traditional open surgery. Patients can often return to their normal activities sooner and experience less pain and discomfort during the recovery process.
4. Improved precision: The use of specialized instruments and imaging technology allows for greater precision during surgery, which can lead to better outcomes and a lower risk of complications.
5. Outpatient procedure: Many minimally invasive foot surgeries can be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day as the surgery.

It’s important to note that not all foot conditions can be treated with minimally invasive surgery, and each case is unique. It’s best to consult with a qualified foot and ankle specialist to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

What conditions can be treated with MIS?
This technique is particularly useful in bunion surgery, where very small scars and better joint movement can be achieved. Other condition and deformities includes: Hammertoes, heel pain, metatarsalgia, neuroma, stiff big toe, diabetic foot ulcerations, and so on.

How is minimally invasive foot surgery performed?
The foot is numbed using an ankle block like traditional surgery and you can be awake or asleep, depending on your preference. A few 3mm incisions are placed around the foot to allow access for the specialized instruments. A radiologic precision diagnostic machine is integral to the operation to ensure the instruments are directed accurately, ensuring precise bony cuts and therefore an excellent correction.

Can any surgeon perform this kind of surgery?
No. Very specific training in minimally invasive techniques is required and these training courses have restricted access. A new range of surgical tools, not normally used in traditional open surgery are used and these require a new set of technical skills in order to master the different surgical techniques. This requires training and experience. Not all foot and ankle surgeons perform minimally invasive foot surgery.

Is it for me?
Most people are eligible to have minimally invasive surgery, however it is not for everyone. Some deformities are too large to be corrected using minimally invasive techniques. A consultation with us will allow you to discuss this in detail and decide which method of foot correction is appropriate for you.
Importantly, the form of Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) we have developed is founded on long established approaches to foot surgery. This means the patient’s recovery and outcome is very controlled and predictable. However, we are able to achieve this outcome while reducing impact on bone structure and soft tissues.