*By Dr. Kevin Lam, Family Foot & Leg Center*
Ankle fusion is often considered a last-resort procedure for patients suffering from severe arthritis, trauma, or joint deformity. Traditionally, many people assume that ankle fusion leads to a loss of mobility, leaving patients with a stiff or “peg leg.” However, advancements in surgical techniques have revolutionized how ankle fusions are performed, offering better outcomes and quicker recoveries. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of arthroscopic ankle fusion, a minimally invasive approach used at Family Foot & Leg Center by Dr. Kevin Lam.
What is Ankle Fusion?
Ankle fusion is a surgical procedure where the bones in the ankle joint are fused to relieve pain and improve stability. It’s often recommended for patients who experience debilitating pain from conditions like arthritis, fractures, or degenerative joint disease. While traditional open ankle fusion involves large incisions and longer recovery periods, arthroscopic ankle fusion offers a minimally invasive alternative.
The Arthroscopic Advantage
At Family Foot & Leg Center, Dr. Kevin Lam uses arthroscopic techniques for ankle fusion, which means the procedure is performed with small incisions and a camera-guided tool. Here are some of the key benefits:
– Minimal Incisions: Unlike traditional surgery that requires large cuts, arthroscopic ankle fusion uses tiny incisions, reducing scarring and the risk of infection.
– Faster Recovery: With less tissue damage, patients experience quicker recovery times and can return to normal activities sooner.
– High Fusion Rates: Arthroscopic surgery boasts high fusion success rates, providing patients with long-lasting pain relief and stability.
– Lower Risk of Complications: Smaller incisions and minimal tissue disruption translate to fewer complications post-surgery.
Real Results: Pain-Free Walking and Mobility
In one of our recent cases, a patient with severe ankle arthritis underwent arthroscopic ankle fusion performed by Dr. Lam. Pre-surgery, the patient suffered from intense pain and difficulty walking. Post-surgery, they were able to move and walk pain-free, with excellent mobility.
Dr. Lam demonstrates the results:
“This is an X-ray of a patient with an ankle fusion. This is what it looks like clinically. Let’s move it around, sir. Walking around without pain. Am I correct?”
The patient responds, confirming the absence of pain after the surgery.
Dr. Lam continues, “That ankle fusion looks good. Nice and solid. It’s done arthroscopically, so you don’t have these major incisions on the side—the incisions are really small. It was done arthroscopically, so it’s a high fusion rate with low complications.”
He also highlights the remarkable improvement in the patient’s mobility:
“How much pain did you have before surgery versus now?”
“A lot of pain before; no pain now,” the patient replies.
Dr. Lam follows up:
“Awesome. How many miles or steps are you walking a day?”
“A couple of miles a day,” the patient proudly shares.
This case demonstrates the success of the arthroscopic ankle fusion procedure, providing the patient with not just a pain-free life, but also the ability to walk several miles a day without discomfort.
A High Fusion Success Rate, Low Risk
Dr. Kevin Lam’s arthroscopic approach minimizes the need for large incisions and lengthy recovery times, while ensuring a high rate of successful fusions. This method significantly reduces the likelihood of complications, such as infection or nerve damage, which are more common in traditional open procedures.
Is Arthroscopic Ankle Fusion Right for You?
If you’re struggling with chronic ankle pain, you don’t have to live with discomfort or limited mobility. 
Arthroscopic ankle fusion might be the solution you need. With minimal scarring, a quicker recovery, and excellent mobility post-surgery, this approach has changed the game for patients in need of ankle fusion.
At Family Foot & Leg Center, Dr. Kevin Lam and his team are dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments that improve quality of life. If you’re experiencing persistent ankle pain, schedule a consultation today to explore your options.
Contact Family Foot & Leg Center
Don’t let ankle pain hold you back any longer! To learn more about arthroscopic ankle fusion and other innovative treatments we offer, contact Dr. Kevin Lam at Family Foot & Leg Center. We’re here to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free.
