Surgeon uses advanced technique
A NEW technique in foot surgery is set to significantly improve recovery and mobility for patients with bunions and other bone conditions of the foot.
The advanced keyhole surgery was performed at St Andrew's Toowoomba Hospital earlier this month, for the first time in Queensland.
The operation involves a smaller incision than previous open techniques which reduces tissue damage, allows faster healing and a speedier recovery.
This advanced technique was performed by Dr Anthony Wilson, orthopaedic surgeon at St Andrew's Hospital and overseen by Mr David Redfern, an orthopaedic surgeon from Brighton in the United Kingdom, one of the pioneers of the new technique.
St Andrew's Hospital CEO Ray Fairweather said that it was exciting to be the first hospital in Queensland to offer such advanced treatment to patients.
"We are fortunate in Toowoomba to have such experienced orthopaedic surgeons who keep abreast of the most current techniques available," he said.
"Patients no longer need to travel to Brisbane for specialised procedures and this level of expertise."
Dr Wilson, who has extensive experience with open foot surgery, explained that this type of surgery is not always suitable for every patient.
"It is essential that each patient undergoes a consultation and assessment with a specialist foot and ankle surgeon who is trained in these techniques to identify if this treatment is appropriate for them," he said.
"Typically, patients with mild to moderate foot conditions are suitable for this type of keyhole surgery."
St Andrew's has built a reputation for being the first to provide the most advanced treatment for patients.
Four years ago St Andrew's opened the Cancer Care Centre with the first radiotherapy unit in a regional centre, treating more than 1000 patients per year, patients who would otherwise have had to travel to Brisbane for treatment.
Due to the level of demand the Cancer Care Centre is currently undergoing expansion and set to double in size with the support of a Commonwealth Government grant of more than $6.1 million.
