Sengkang General Hospital (SKH) has made medical history by performing Southeast Asia’s first lateral ankle replacement surgery. The pioneering procedure was led by Dr Ananda Vella, a Senior Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in foot and ankle conditions. This groundbreaking surgery offers new hope for patients suffering from severe ankle arthritis, a condition that has traditionally been challenging to treat effectively.
Ankle arthritis can lead to debilitating pain, severely limiting mobility and quality of life. While total ankle replacement has been a common treatment for arthritis affecting the front or back of the ankle, arthritis on the outer side of the ankle, known as lateral ankle arthritis, has posed a greater challenge. Traditional surgical methods for this condition often involve complex procedures with varying outcomes.
However, Dr Ananda Vella and his team at SKH have now introduced a minimally invasive alternative that promises better recovery and improved functionality for patients. The lateral ankle replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged section of the ankle with a custom-made implant designed to fit the unique anatomy of the patient’s ankle. This approach not only alleviates pain but also preserves the natural movement of the joint, which is crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle.
Dr Ananda Vella highlighted the importance of this new surgical technique, stating that the procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief from other treatments and are facing the prospect of limited mobility. By focusing on the lateral aspect of the ankle, they can provide a targeted solution that addresses the specific area of damage.
The surgery has shown promising results, with patients experiencing significant pain relief and a quicker return to daily activities compared to those who underwent traditional ankle surgeries. Dr Ananda Vella’s expertise and the innovative approach employed at SKH mark a significant advancement in the field of orthopaedic surgery, particularly in the treatment of ankle conditions.
As the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, this lateral ankle replacement surgery sets a new standard for orthopaedic care in the region. Dr Ananda Vella and his team are committed to refining the technique further and hope to make it more widely available to patients suffering from similar conditions.
For more details on this pioneering surgery, please refer to the original report by The Singapore General Hospital here.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.