There are a variety of surgical techniques which can be employed to correct flat feet. For flat feet that remain flexible and amenable to correction, Dr. Buckley prefers to perform a minimally invasive corrective procedure called Arthroereisis. This technique involves a tiny incision and implantation of a device in a naturally occurring space between two bones in the foot. This produces the effect of limiting hyperpronation and producing corrective alignment of the foot by preventing collapse of the arch when weight bearing. The advantages of arthroereisis are that the surgery is minimally invasive, with little to no scar produced (often as few as 2-3 stitches are required), the surgery takes around 15-20 minutes and can be performed as a day procedure, patients can generally be back on their feet doing normal activities within a few weeks (varies from patient to patient). In addition, the amount of correction to be achieved is controlled by the surgeon at the time of surgery, the procedure has generally low rate of complications,  and can usually be reversed in the case where an unsatisfactory result is produced. Additional procedures are sometimes required to be performed at the same time of arthroereisis. 

Advantages of a minimally invasive approach

  • Very small incision means less potential for scarring
  • Less dissection and disruption of surrounding tissues means potentially faster recovery and often less postoperative pain
  • Less Downtime; patients are often back to normal activities within a few weeks

Indications

  • For patients for whom conservative management such as orthoses and footwear has not been adequate to control symptoms or improve function
  • Depending on the nature and severity of the flat foot pathology, not everyone is a candidate for arthroereisis; Dr Buckley performs thorough examination of each patient prior to recommending any surgical procedure. 

To book a consultation with Dr Ned Buckley regarding Flat Foot Surgery, please contact our clinic on 9481 8194 or use our online  booking system for an instant appointment.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.