Minimally invasive foot & ankle surgery
Minimally invasive (keyhole) foot and ankle surgery is an advanced surgical approach that uses smaller incisions and specialised instruments to treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. At Cabot Clinic, Mr Peter Robinson offers specialist minimally invasive techniques designed to relieve pain, improve function, and support a return to normal activity wherever possible.
Using modern surgical methods, many foot and ankle conditions that previously required open surgery can now be treated through smaller incisions. This approach aims to reduce disruption to surrounding soft tissues, which may help minimise post-operative pain, swelling and scarring, and can support a more comfortable recovery in appropriately selected patients.
Not all patients or conditions are suitable for minimally invasive surgery. Careful assessment is always required to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. During consultation, Mr Peter Robinson will consider your symptoms, examination findings and imaging to recommend a personalised treatment plan, which may include non-operative care, minimally invasive surgery, or traditional open procedures where necessary.
Benefits of minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery
Minimally invasive techniques may offer several advantages compared with traditional open surgery. These potential benefits include:
- Smaller incisions and reduced scarring
- Less soft tissue disruption
- Reduced post-operative pain and swelling
- Faster recovery and rehabilitation
- Earlier return to normal footwear and activities
- Lower risk of wound complications
While these advantages are well recognised, outcomes vary depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. Not every condition is suitable for a minimally invasive approach, and this will be discussed fully during your consultation.
Conditions commonly treated
Minimally invasive foot and ankle techniques can be used to treat a wide range of conditions affecting the toes, forefoot, midfoot and ankle.
Toe deformities
- Hallux valgus (bunions)
- Hallux rigidus (arthritis of the big toe joint)
- Hammer toes
- Claw toes
- Mallet toes
Foot conditions
- Metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of the foot)
- Morton’s neuroma
- Midfoot arthritis
- Forefoot deformities
- Painful prominences and bony overgrowths
- Flat foot deformity
- Cavovarus foot deformity
Ankle conditions
- Ankle impingement
- Cartilage injuries
- Ankle arthritis
- Acute and chronic ankle instability
- Achilles tendon insertional tendinopathy
- Tendon and ligament disorders
Assessment and treatment planning
Foot and ankle symptoms can arise from a wide range of underlying conditions, and a careful assessment is essential to guide treatment.
During consultation, Mr Peter Robinson will take a detailed history and examine the foot and ankle. This may be supported by imaging such as weight-bearing X-rays, and where appropriate, MRI or other scans.
Treatment is always tailored to the individual and may include non-operative approaches such as footwear modification, orthotics, physiotherapy or injections. If symptoms persist despite these measures, surgical options may be considered. Where appropriate, minimally invasive techniques may be recommended, although open surgery may still be required in some cases to achieve the best long-term outcome.
Minimally invasive bunion surgery
Mr Peter Robinson uses advanced minimally invasive techniques and equipment to treat the pain and deformity associated with bunions.
Through small incisions, specialised instruments are used to realign and stabilise the bones of the foot, correcting the underlying deformity. This approach aims to improve joint alignment while preserving surrounding soft tissues.
Compared with traditional open surgery, minimally invasive bunion surgery may result in reduced swelling, less post-operative pain, and a quicker recovery in suitable patients.
During your consultation, Mr Robinson will discuss all treatment options with you, including both non-operative and operative approaches, to determine the most appropriate plan for your foot and your individual circumstances.
Recovery
Recovery following minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery varies depending on the specific procedure performed.
Most patients are able to mobilise soon after surgery in a protective boot or surgical shoe. Swelling is common in the early stages and gradually settles over time.
A structured follow-up plan is provided to monitor healing and guide return to normal footwear, activity and sport. Recovery timelines vary and will be discussed with you before surgery, so you have a clear understanding of what to expect.
Could minimally invasive foot & ankle surgery help you?
If you are experiencing ongoing foot or ankle pain, deformity or reduced mobility, Mr Peter Robinson can assess your condition and discuss whether minimally invasive surgery or alternative treatment options may be appropriate for you.