Sunday, July 21, 2024

Ankle Fusion Surgery | Dr. Kevin Lam #toppodiatrist #footsurgeon

 




Foot pain can significantly impact daily life, making even simple tasks challenging. When conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, and orthotics fail to alleviate severe ankle pain, ankle fusion surgery may be considered. This procedure involves fusing the bones of the ankle joint to eliminate motion and provide stability. By doing so, it can effectively reduce pain and improve function for patients with arthritis, deformities, or severe injuries. While the recovery process involves several weeks of immobilization and physical therapy, many patients find that the long-term relief and enhanced quality of life are well worth the effort.

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About 7 months out, we had a mini arthrotomy surgery arthrodesis for  ankle arthritis. Okay.

So the mini arthrotomy is on either side right here, making a low cut so we don't make a big incision
and just clean it all out, took some bone graft from here to stick it in there, the screws you saw is a tripod screw

So one, two, and three tripod screw.

So everything is good now. 

Before surgery, how much pain did you have, sir?

"A ten, a lot of times"

A ten, okay.

"It got to where I couldn't walk at all"

Got it, got it.

"I just stay home" [laughs]

But now, how much pain do you have now?

"None"

So now your wife has to keep up with you now, right?

"Yeah"

The opposite. Okay, good stuff.

It looks really good. It actually looks awesome.  I don't have to see you for 6 months now, but everything healed up great.

Are you happy with it?

"Yes"

Ten to zero.

"Oh yeah. Pain is gone, that's all I was after"

Well, congratulations

The ankle fusion -- move the ankle around.

Now you won't even know you had an ankle fusion.

Because people are always confused,
they think it's going to be stiff legs

Not true.

The ankle fusion is there, solid but your joint movement is from the other joints
around the ankle and I think you're going to do well

So I think we're doing good. Awesome.

So the ankle fusion is this joint right up here, right?

He's getting motion out of the subtalar joint as well as talonavicular and the calcaneocuboid joint

All these other joints around there are moving very well
but you're seeing a lot of motion through here 
because we locked up the ankle.

Well, before he was having ankle arthritis, right?

So he was having a lot of pain right here

Locked that up with a fusion with screws.

A lot of people don't understand that --

-- or they think that the ankle fusion 
is going to really limit you

Actually it increases your life.

I mean, this person had 10 out of 10 pain

Now the patient is going on one mile walks

walking the dog, walking with the wife.

So it makes a huge difference

Yes we do total ankle implants but they're

I will say for a limited amount of patients

but the ankle fusion is still the gold standard guys.

So here you go. Thank you.


Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Rigid equinus from residual club foot

 Mission work from St. Lucia. Rigid equinus from residual club foot. Patient was brought over by a missionary to seek help in the USA. "God, brought her to you, he said." Humbled and happy that this young lady is now leading a good life back home able to walk and now has a family of her own. Prior she was not able to take care of herself, we take for granted the ability to walk @footlegcenter Sometimes we forget with all the insurance regulations and prior authorizations that our skill is needed in this world. AI is not taking this over.





Thursday, June 27, 2024

#TBT #trauma case

 #TBT some good ole fashioned #trauma case. patient unable to walk due to the contracture of the foot and ankle in varus. #ilizarov method and teamwork with #orthopedics to remove their rod in the leg with specific timing allowed for healing of a nonunion of the tibia as well as deformity correction. a 90 degrees foot to the ankle is a dream to achieve in these corrections. @footlegcenter






Sunday, June 23, 2024

Arthroscopic Ankle fusion

 




Arthroscopic Ankle fusion in our older population, pain-free ambulation after 8 weeks. When open ankle fusion or ankle implants are not even an option. @footlegcenter


Living with Ankle Arthritis? Discover the Benefits of Ankle Fusion!

Are you or someone you know struggling with the pain and limitations of ankle arthritis? You're not alone, and there's hope on the horizon! 🦶✨


🦶 What is Ankle Arthritis?

Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the ankle joint wears down, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement. This can make everyday activities challenging and reduce your quality of life. 😔



🦶What is Ankle Fusion?

Ankle fusion, or arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure that involves fusing the bones of the ankle joint together. This helps eliminate pain by stopping the movement of the joint, providing a stable and strong foundation. 



Benefits of Ankle Fusion:

1. Pain Relief: Say goodbye to chronic pain! Ankle fusion can significantly reduce or eliminate pain, allowing you to enjoy life again. 

2. Improved Mobility: With a stable and strong ankle, you'll find it easier to walk, stand, and engage in daily activities. 


3. Increased Functionality: Regain the ability to perform tasks that were once difficult or impossible. 


4. Long-Lasting Results: Ankle fusion offers a durable solution, often lasting a lifetime without the need for further surgery. 



Is Ankle Fusion Right for You?

Consult with an orthopedic specialist to discuss your symptoms and explore if ankle fusion is the best option for your specific condition. Personalized medical advice is crucial! 🩺

We're here to help you step forward with confidence.

#AnkleArthritis #AnkleFusion #PainRelief #OrthopedicSurgery #HealthyLiving

Monday, May 27, 2024

Lam Bunionectomy: A Game Changer in Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery! #TopPodiatrist #Bunion

 



Dr. Kevin Lam, renowned as a top podiatrist and a leading expert in foot and ankle surgery, introduces a revolutionary technique designed to transform the way bunions are treated.

Get an exclusive look at how the Lam Bunionectomy offers patients a faster, less painful recovery period compared to traditional surgery methods. Whether you're suffering from painful bunions or are looking for the latest advancements in podiatric surgery, this video is a must-watch. Dr. Lam's expertise and innovative approach make him a trusted name in the field, offering hope and healing to those struggling with foot and ankle issues. What you need to know about bunionectomies. Don't do a bunionectomy until you see this result Lam Bunionectomy. Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery http://www.scarlessbunion.com/ https://www.naplespodiatrist.com/ Call: 239 430 3668 option 2 at voice prompt https://www.NaplesPodiatrist.com/offices for 24/7 self scheduling Patient portal link: https://9455.portal.athenahealth.com/ The Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC) boasts a network of state-of-the-art clinics strategically located across Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring that no matter where you are in Florida, expert foot and ankle care is within reach. Our mission is to help you overcome your foot and ankle challenges swiftly and effectively, so you can return to your active lifestyle as quickly as possible. With our advanced treatment options and a team of dedicated specialists, FFLC is committed to providing you with the best care possible, conveniently located right in your neighborhood. CONTACT US - https://www.naplespodiatrist.com/offi... WEBSITE - https://www.naplespodiatrist.com/ INSTAGRAM -   / footlegcenter   FACEBOOK -   / toppodiatrist   TWITTER -   / drkevinlamdpm   #bunion #bunionsurgery #bunionpain # bunionectomy #noscarbunion #painlessbunionsurgery #scarlessbunion #bigtoe #podiatrist #podiatry #bunions #Naples #PortCharlotte #CapeCoral #FortMyers #Estero #LeeCounty

Friday, May 17, 2024

Hammertoe Tendon Release -- No blade, no sutures! #toppodiatrist #floridapodiatrist #fflc

 




Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery!

Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!



Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Real Results Revealed: Patient 4 Months Post Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy!



Here we showcase the incredible progress of an actual patient just 4 months after undergoing a minimally invasive bunionectomy. This patient's journey is a testament to the transformative power of modern podiatric surgery.

Join us as we witness firsthand the remarkable recovery of this patient, who is doing exceptionally well with virtually no visible scar and outstanding results. Their experience speaks volumes about the effectiveness of minimally invasive techniques in treating bunions. Discover how a minimally invasive bunionectomy can not only alleviate discomfort but also leave minimal scarring, allowing patients to get back on their feet with confidence. If you're considering bunion treatment, this video is a must-watch for insights into the potential outcomes of minimally invasive procedures.

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Hammertoe Release

Say Goodbye to Hammertoe Pain: Fast Solutions for Happy Feet




Hammertoes – they may sound innocuous, but anyone who's experienced them knows the agony they can cause. From discomfort to outright pain, hammertoes can put a real damper on your day-to-day activities, especially when it comes to wearing shoes. But fear not! Relief is within reach, and it's closer than you might think.

What exactly are hammertoes? Imagine your toe adopting a hammer-like shape, with the joint bent unnaturally downward, causing it to press against the inside of your shoe. Ouch! But why does this happen? Several factors can contribute, including genetics, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or certain foot conditions like bunions or arthritis. Regardless of the cause, one thing remains true – hammertoes can be downright painful.

So, what can you do about it? The first step is seeking professional help. At Family Foot & Leg Center, we specialize in resolving foot issues like hammertoes with efficiency and care. Our team of experienced podiatrists understands the frustration and discomfort that hammertoes bring, and we're dedicated to providing fast, effective solutions tailored to your unique needs.

From conservative treatments like orthotic inserts and toe exercises to more advanced options such as splinting or minimally invasive procedures, we offer a range of interventions designed to alleviate your pain and restore mobility. Don't let hammertoes dictate your footwear choices or limit your activities any longer – take control of your foot health today.


Ready to bid farewell to hammertoe pain? It's as simple as picking up the phone and dialing (239) 430-3668 to schedule an appointment with our friendly team. Whether you're seeking relief from existing discomfort or looking to prevent future issues, we're here to help you put your best foot forward.


Hammertoes may be painful, but they don't have to be a permanent burden. With prompt attention and the right treatment plan, you can reclaim comfort and confidence in your footwear choices. Don't suffer in silence – reach out to Family Foot & Leg Center today and take the first step toward happier, healthier feet.

At the Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC), we take pride in our expansive network of cutting-edge clinics spread strategically throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties, ensuring that no matter where you are in Florida, expert foot and ankle care is within reach. Our mission is to help you overcome your foot and ankle challenges swiftly and effectively, so you can return to your active lifestyle as quickly as possible. With our advanced treatment options and a team of dedicated specialists, FFLC is committed to providing you with the best care possible, conveniently located right in your neighborhood.

Monday, May 6, 2024

Post Bunionectomy Follow-up | Peabody and Reverse Peabody




Range of motion is good, patient is active, and able to go back to her activities.


Minimally invasive surgery gives you the benefit of virtually no scars, no joint stiffness, hardly any pain, and recovery is relatively easy.


Minimally invasive Bunion Surgery

http://www.scarlessbunion.com/



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We are doing follow-up. Almost a year from the bunionectomies? Not even? We did both feet. 


"Yes."


We did the right foot and then we did the left foot. We did the bunion on this side as well as the bunionette on this side. Bunionette on the 5th. So we did a Peabody, reverse Peabody, minimally invasively, you see the scar is beautiful and then we see the scar over here, hardly any, this was from a recent injection. Excuse that.


So, range of motion is good, patient is active, able to go back to her activity.  Incision is right here, 

pin site is right here. As you can see there's no other bunions, Before she had a splay foot. 

So this splayed out. That's what before it looks like, it a splay foot so that's why we did the bunionectomy and the  reverse bunionectomy.


The minimally invasive gives you the benefit of no scars -- virtually no scars, no joint stiffness, and hardly any pain, recovery is relatively easy, am I correct? 


"Yes." 


Good, good, relatively. 

"Yes."


It's still surgery. 


"Yeah, it's all good."


But overall it looks good, are you happy with it? 


"Yes." 


Awesome.


Great results, awesome, less than a year for the other one, we're doing great. Back to work.


Friday, May 3, 2024

Post-Bunionectomy Patient Follow-up | Bunion Surgery Results

 



Bunion Surgery Follow-Up: A Journey to Improved Foot Health:

Left Foot: Five Years Later

Five years after undergoing bunion surgery on their left foot, our patient has experienced significant improvements in comfort and mobility. Before the surgery, they endured chronic pain and discomfort caused by the bunion deformity, affecting their daily activities and quality of life. However, post-operation, they've enjoyed a remarkable reduction in pain and swelling, allowing them to walk and stand with ease.


The minimally invasive bunion surgery performed at Family Foot & Leg Center has not only corrected the bunion deformity but also minimized scarring and accelerated the recovery process. Our patient is thrilled with the long-term results, as they continue to enjoy an active lifestyle without the limitations imposed by their previous foot condition.


Right Foot: Few Months Later

On the other foot, quite literally, our patient underwent bunion surgery just a few months ago, and the results are already promising. By opting for minimally invasive bunion surgery, they've experienced minimal discomfort and downtime, allowing for a smoother recovery compared to traditional surgical methods.


Already, our patient has noticed a significant improvement in the alignment of their right foot, as the bunion deformity is gradually corrected. With the guidance and support of the experienced team at Family Foot & Leg Center, they're confident that their right foot will soon mirror the success of their left foot, leading to enhanced foot health and overall well-being.


Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery:

At Family Foot & Leg Center, we specialize in minimally invasive bunion surgery, offering patients a revolutionary approach to correcting bunions with fewer complications and faster recovery times. Our innovative techniques prioritize precision and effectiveness, ensuring optimal outcomes for every patient.


If you're considering bunion surgery or seeking follow-up care after a previous procedure, we invite you to explore the benefits of minimally invasive bunion surgery at Family Foot & Leg Center. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized care and comprehensive support throughout your journey to improved foot health.

Bunion surgery can be a life-changing experience, providing relief from pain and discomfort while restoring mobility and confidence. Through the remarkable journey of our patient, we've witnessed the transformative impact of minimally invasive bunion surgery on foot health and overall well-being.


Whether you're five years post-operation or just a few months into recovery, Family Foot & Leg Center is here to support you every step of the way. Join us in embracing a future of pain-free living and enhanced foot health with minimally invasive bunion surgery.





Tuesday, April 30, 2024

The Game-Changer in Bunion Surgery: Scarless, Minimally Invasive Techniques




Are you suffering from the agony of bunions, contemplating surgery, but deterred by the thought of scars and lengthy recovery times? If so, then this might just be the game-changer you've been waiting for.


Bunions, those painful bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, can wreak havoc on your mobility and quality of life. For many, the traditional approach to correcting bunions involves invasive surgery, leaving behind noticeable scars and requiring extensive recovery periods. However, there's a revolutionary alternative that's transforming the landscape of bunion treatment: Scarless, Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery.


Imagine undergoing bunion surgery without the fear of visible scars, minimal recovery time, and virtually no pain. Sounds too good to be true? Well, thanks to advancements in medical technology and innovative techniques pioneered by professionals like Dr. Kevin Lam, the Lam Bunionectomy or Scarless Bunionectomy is now a reality.


Dr. Kevin Lam has not only refined the traditional bunion surgery technique but has also taken it a step further by developing a minimally invasive approach that can be performed right in the comfort and safety of an office surgical suite. This groundbreaking method not only offers the benefit of minimal scarring but also ensures a quicker healing process with significantly reduced risk of complications.


Here's why No Scar Bunion Surgery is gaining traction and why you shouldn't consider any other option without exploring this innovative approach:


1. Minimal Recovery Time:

 Traditional bunion surgery often involves weeks or even months of recovery time, during which patients may experience discomfort and limitations in their daily activities. However, with Scarless Bunion Surgery, the recovery time is significantly shortened, allowing patients to return to their normal routines much sooner.


2. Virtually Painless: One of the biggest concerns for individuals considering bunion surgery is the fear of pain during and after the procedure. With the minimally invasive approach used in Scarless Bunion Surgery, patients experience minimal discomfort both during the surgery and throughout the recovery process.


3. No Visible Scars: Unlike traditional bunion surgery, which often leaves noticeable scars, Scarless Bunion Surgery leaves behind minimal to no visible scarring. This is particularly appealing for individuals who are conscious about their appearance and wish to avoid the tell-tale signs of surgery.


4. Office-Based Procedure: Scarless Bunion Surgery can be performed right in the office surgical suite, eliminating the need for hospitalization and providing added convenience for patients. This not only reduces the overall cost of the procedure but also ensures a comfortable and familiar environment for patients undergoing treatment. 

5. Reduced Risk of Complications: Dr. Kevin Lam's modified technique for Scarless Bunion Surgery has demonstrated a remarkable track record with no post-operative infections related to the procedure to date. This speaks volumes about the safety and effectiveness of this innovative approach. Patients undergoing surgery in office clinics may benefit from a lower risk of post-operative infections, contributing to better overall outcomes and faster recovery.

So if you're considering bunion surgery, don't make a decision without exploring the option of Scarless Bunion Surgery. With its minimal recovery time, virtually painless experience, and no visible scars, it represents a paradigm shift in the field of bunion treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as Dr. Kevin Lam, to learn more about this groundbreaking technique and how it can help you put an end to the misery of bunions once and for all. Say goodbye to pain, scars, and lengthy recovery times – and hello to a future of improved mobility and comfort.

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Video transcription:


This foot --  minimally invasive surgery at about three months ago we did this foot  again, we did the whole forefoot pretty much, this one left we did it  -- as you can see the marking for the Weil osteotomy, the bunionectomy, this one still has the pin and we're a little bit about two months -- a little more, plus or minus two months.


"It's two months". 


Two months exactly. Okay thank you for correcting [patient laughs] but that looks great, that looks awesome, just a couple weeks behind, she's a brave one to do both feet at the same time but now you have two regular-looking feet. What do you think?


"Happy, happy, Very happy."


Well that's the incision right there and this is the incision right here two months and three months out, going back in sneakers, a little bit more recovery on this one but we're gonna pull the pin today so let's go. Both bunionectomies were done. Where's the scar -- there are none, right there. Both feet have been done. Looking good, looking good. there's the scar there's the scar, it's really not much, we're doing a follow-up today, the lady came from Orlando, home of Mickey Mouse. Looks really good there, awesome.

---

This was the previous patient, this is the post-op x-ray today. How long ago since the surgery dear?

"Oh, this was July -- one June, one July."


One June, one July, we are in October. Looking good, everything looks good, hardly any pain, her -- as you can see, she's doing very, very well. This is the beauty of the minimally invasive surgery, we did Weil osteotomy number 2, 3, 4, and 5; did hammer toe correction number 2, 3, 4 right here and 5 you see the incision is quite small right here, small incision, a small incision hidden right there, small incision hidden right in there, we have 2, 3, 4, 5 metatarsal, so we're able to cut the bones through the skin with the aid intraoperative fluoroscopy and you said your husband said your toes are what again?


[Patient laughs] "Look the best they have in years".


Beautiful, well I'm glad you like it, it's going to continue healing and you're going to do great dear.

 "Great".


This is 11 weeks, we have the Peabody -- reverse Peabody bunionectomy and then we had second metatarsal Weil osteotomy, so we -- she had a lot of pins on met 2 so we did a plantar surgery of the first ray metatarsal head, there's your scar and then here's your scar for the tailor's, here's your scar for the Weil osteotomy where we cut the second metatarsal in order to realign the joint so far it looks really good, it's 11 weeks, back to golf, back to your activity. I think you're going to continue to get better


"Okay".


It's awesome.


Dr. Lam just taking a little break in between my day had an awesome visit with one of my patients, she's 3 years out of the minimally invasive bunionectomy, a very young active female. And  as you could hear from her own story 


I didn't think she would wear high heels again or dance or etc. I set her expectations straight, she came to me with some arthritis in the big toe joint as well as the second toe joint as you can see on the x-ray you'll see two screws in there because I had to go ahead and fix that second toe joint too because it was dislocated, hammertoe etc.


So she comes in three years later her complaint is 4th and 5th toe pain and contracture we didn't quite address those the last time because that wasn't bothering her, so the things we did address is the bunion, the hammer toe, the dislocated joint, she was in pretty bad shape, she could not walk, could not run and I'll be realistic, you know, can't promise the world when you come in with already arthritis in those joints already, so we took a risk, I told her that likely she won't be able to run or wear high heels. Anyway I'll make her look better but 3 years later she's as happy can be, referred to me a lot of patients for the minimally invasive bunionectomy you'll see on the x-ray, you'll see the results what it looks like 3 years after surgery, the healing is awesome.


Patient does not feel any pain when we did the surgery, she has  fourth and fifth toe hammertoe, it happens, they are live tendons moving around in there so we just have to fix that, considering the circumstances she is very happy, she actually exceeded expectations where she can actually go and dance and run and cycle and stay active, she's a very active young lady and you know, it brings me joy to see these patients come back three years, four years, five years out of their Lam bunionectomy and you know that their life has changed, it's a big life-changing experience sometimes with these bunionectomies you never would think she referred a friend and neighbor to me, we're going to fix her soon but you know, there's really no need to wait to get the bunionectomy nowadays, believe it or not over the last -- I would say a few months, right now I've been starting to use the uh minimally invasive Arthrex burr, we started using it, utilizing a saw as it's described, a power saw, I really didn't like that so I went ahead and went away from the power saw because it could generate heat and damage to tissues so went away from that, I went back to the old osteotome which is a chisel and a hammer, the reason why we did that was because to limit the amount of heat to limit the amount of soft tissue damage and that worked really well, that's what this lady had but now within the last few months last half of the year, I would say 2018, Arthrex came out with this soft tissue burr that does not cut -- I mean not soft tissue bone burr that does not cut soft tissue so it's the opposite of what's just said it does not cut soft tissue so which is great it can -- we could go ahead and cut bone and selectively cut bone and not cut tendon, nerve, and vital structures and makes the minimally invasive bunionectomy more minimally invasive, believe it or not, it's just a one stitch, one stab incision, it's not even an incision at all; not even --  it used to be three to six millimeters incision now it's a stab, a stab wound, that's all it is, to get the burr in there and make the cut


The cut is faster and more accurate. And I'm very excited about this guys it's a great advancement in bunion surgery a lot of times patients ask -- I even get calls from other doctors, physicians asking what makes your bunionectomy so different?


Well if you read my website, the bunionectomy is different, we use the minimally invasive method a few of us do it in the United States, it's an adaptation for an older procedure but you know, sometimes the classic is better we don't do a lot of soft tissue damage that's why it's minimally invasive. Our patients do really well with that; proof is in the pudding, follow the next part of this video, subscribe to me on YouTube, you can find me on Instagram, Dr. Kevin Lam, the proof is in the picture and the pudding and the patient testimonials. This is a great way of getting a bunionectomy done, 99% of my bunionectomies are done this way nowadays, there are other reasons why I wouldn't do it but majority of my patients do get it, it's catching a wave that Arthrex, a big orthopedic company as well as Wright Medical has been promoting such minimally invasive surgery, it is catching but not a lot of people understand it yet, not a lot of people in my profession understand or the orthopedic or podiatric community really understand this procedure, you really have to see it to believe it but I've been doing it for years and patients love it, 99% of my patients go through this bunionectomy. Again check it out, go ahead subscribe to my channel you'll see a lot more of these videos with patient testimonials involved, okay thank you


Minimally invasive bunionectomy, three years out, how are you liking it?


"I love it". 


Yeah well thanks for referring your friend I almost forgot .


"Oh gosh, yes. I can wear high heels and you said i wasn't going to be able to for a while, and i wear the highest heels ever"

[laughter]


Well good, we have your alignment in place, there's no bump on the side ,the bump is gone, it's  sort of like that, resorbed a lot and there's really no scar


"No scar at all and I was back running. Within a few -- I'd say a month and a half"


Beautiful. Now your back, we'll fix the other two toes, number four and five those are hammer toes but not a big deal, we'll get you taken care of, okay? 


"Thank you so much". 

You were awesome.


Monday, April 29, 2024

Revolutionizing Hallux Rigidus Treatment: Minimally Invasive Approach by Dr. Kevin Lam

 


The Minimally Invasive Approach to Hallux Rigidus by Dr. Kevin Lam

Hallux rigidus, often referred to as big toe joint arthritis, is a debilitating condition that can severely impact mobility and quality of life. Often confused with bunions, Hallux rigidus and its precursor, Hallux limitus, present unique challenges for patients seeking relief. Let us explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. Kevin Lam, D.P.M., FACFAS, DABLES, DABPS, in revolutionizing the treatment of Hallux rigidus through minimally invasive techniques.


Understanding Hallux Rigidus and Hallux Limitus:

Before delving into treatment options, it's crucial to differentiate between Hallux rigidus and Hallux limitus. While both conditions affect the big toe joint, Hallux rigidus refers to advanced arthritis of the joint, resulting in stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion. Conversely, Hallux limitus is characterized by restricted motion at the joint, often mistaken for a dorsal bunion.


The Conventional Approach vs. Minimally Invasive Surgery:

Traditionally, the treatment for Hallux rigidus has involved joint fusion or more invasive surgical procedures. However, Dr. Kevin Lam has pioneered a minimally invasive approach that offers patients a faster recovery and superior outcomes.


In a live case demonstration, Dr. Lam showcases the minimally invasive technique, making a small stab incision and using a rotating burr to precisely remove the bone spur causing pain and stiffness. Unlike traditional methods, which may require extensive incisions and prolonged recovery periods, patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery heal with just one stitch and can walk immediately post-procedure.


Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery:

The advantages of minimally invasive surgery for Hallux rigidus are manifold. Patients experience minimal wound healing complications, reduced postoperative pain, and faster return to daily activities. Additionally, the preservation of healthy tissue and smaller incisions result in cosmetically appealing outcomes, with virtually no visible scarring.


Comparing Minimally Invasive Surgery to Traditional Joint Fusion:

One of the key distinctions between minimally invasive surgery and traditional joint fusion lies in the preservation of joint motion. While joint fusion aims to eliminate pain by fusing the bones together, it can limit mobility and may necessitate alterations in gait. In contrast, minimally invasive techniques focus on preserving joint function while addressing the underlying pathology, allowing patients to maintain a more natural range of motion and mobility.


Dr. Kevin Lam's innovative approach to treating Hallux rigidus represents a paradigm shift in foot and ankle surgery. By embracing minimally invasive techniques, patients can undergo treatment with confidence, knowing they'll experience less pain, faster recovery, and superior outcomes. If you're suffering from Hallux rigidus, consider consulting with Dr. Lam to explore the benefits of minimally invasive surgery and take the first step towards reclaiming your mobility and quality of life.


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Video Transcription:


Hi guys this is Dr. Lam talking about hallux limitus, we're going to go over a case, a live case later on

but I just want to give you a little background of hallux limitus.


Hallux limitus or AKA big toe joint arthritis sometimes people come in and confuse that with a bunion, okay this foot model is a bunion but hallux limitus is what we call a dorsal bunion or you get this bunion, this bump on top of the big toe joint, it can also be gout but we can figure that out really easily with an x-ray. So let's talk about hallux limitus / rigidus today in this video, again we'll show you a live case and show now we're able to now make a small little incision on top, I'm gonna show you on top a small little incision you'll see a live case basically make a small incision on top right about here that's the big toe joint as you can see trying to work backwards here pretty much I stick a rotating burr that protects the tendon and the nerve, it only cuts bone no soft tissue; soft tissue is well protected so I make a small little stab incision, put this burr in there and just pretty much just burr down the spur basically just cut down the spur as you'll see


Okay this is Dr. Lam again coming to you from one of the rooms where we talk about hallux limitus, we're gonna go right here hallux rigidus make a small little incision in the skin, put the burr down here and just burr this down so that reach over and burr this down a little bit too and you'll see before and after the rigidus is very painful because it's jamming right about here, the joint is jamming so traditionally we would open it up, shave it down this way and you still cause a lot of stiffness, so what did we do? Didn't really help very much, right?


So now we're able to do it minimally invasively and  able to burr this down without opening up the joint and that seems to get better results, we're not exposing the bone -- I mean we're not exposing to air and patients heel with one stitch they're walking on it right away, no wound healing complications and patients get back to activity almost right away depending on how bad your spur is. Now if it's really bad, the stage of the hallux limitus obviously the very severe cases the joint fusion is still the best choice but we pushed the limit on this before, I've had patients who say, "Doc I don't care, I know you tell me that I need a fusion or an implant but I would like to try the minimally invasive cheilectomy.


Well this case will show one of those cases, enjoy.

Hallux rigidus right here, big bump on top right here the whole joint is inflamed, it's locked and there's really not much motion and range of motion is right about here, it's locked so the bones were right here so that we're going to try to get rid of this with the minimally invasive method, we're going to look from here this side again, you see that locking mechanism right there causing a lot of pain, the goal is to go ahead and shave this bunch off with a small little incision so that the joint can at least move up to about 90 degrees today, that's my goal today is get up to 90 degrees with the MIS method. Let's take a look.


Take a shot. Finish off right here, and that's what we have, just pull out the bone paste all that bone paste out of the bone, okay, yes, that's all the bone paste, now let's watch the range of motion now, we had a big spur right here before on both sides, now motion motion is great checking the motion right here check out the motion from the side, range of motion pushing that motion all the way up.