Heel Pain Surgery
The majority of heel pain is caused by plantar fasciitis. This is when the ligament that runs from under the heel along the sole of the foot becomes swollen over time and often this is due to lifestyle issues and occupation.
If conservative treatments fail to resolve the issues, then there are three main surgical options and a brief description of each follows…
TOPAZ Coblation
The Topaz Procedure is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic Achilles tendonitis and chronic plantar fasciitis. The surgeon places the Topaz handpiece, which is similar in appearance to a large sewing needle, into the affected fascia or tendon for just a half-second. Then, the handpiece is moved an d reinserted approximately a quarter-inch from the original insertion point This action is repeated until a grid-like pattern is formed around the affected area.
The system uses “cobalation” technologies, which are radio frequency waves that cause microscopic “trauma” to the inflamed tissue your body hasn’t yet been able to heal. The procedure brings blood back to the affected area and restarts the healing process by increasing the growth factors in the damaged tissue region.
Endoscopic Plantar Fascia Release
Previously, traditional plantar fascia release operations involved open surgery, however with developments in surgical techniques, in this procedure, the surgeon cuts part of the plantar fascia ligament, thereby relieving tension that may have accumulated. To do this, the surgeon makes a small incision around the heel pad and inserts a small instrument set which allows location of the plantar fascia ligament which can then be released to relieve some of the tension.
Achilles Tendon Release (Endoscopic)
Achilles tendon release is a surgical procedure that aims to stretch the Achilles tendon to allow a person to walk flat-footed without a bend in the knee, or to bring relief to chronic pain. This procedure elongates a contracted Achilles tendon by making small cuts on the tendons at the back of the ankle. This can be done using keyhole surgery, which allows the patient to be treated as a day case and improves the recovery time.
