What to Expect From Minimally Invasive Surgery

When you undergo minimally invasive surgery, it is done on an outpatient basis. For some procedures, we will use general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep and comfortable throughout the process. Tiny incisions will be made in your foot or ankle, and specialized tools, including an endoscope—a slender tube with a camera—will be used to guide the treatment with precision.

Once we have taken care of the damaged tissue or bone, we’ll carefully remove the tools and stitch up the incisions. You will be monitored in the recovery room until the anesthesia wears off. Afterward, we’ll provide you with detailed recovery instructions and prescribe any necessary antibiotics and pain medication.

We use a local anesthetic for simpler procedures, like ingrown toenail removal. You will be awake but comfortable, and most people can return to their regular activities the same day.

Advanced Healing Therapies to Enhance Your Recovery

In addition to minimally invasive surgeries, Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center offers advanced healing therapies to further enhance your recovery process. These therapies can promote healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain, helping you get back on your feet more quickly.

Laser Therapy for Toenail Fungus

If you’re battling onychomycosis (nail fungus), Remy Laser therapy might be your answer. This state-of-the-art treatment offered by our Central Maryland podiatrists utilizes advanced laser technology to target and eliminate fungal infections while leaving your healthy tissue unharmed. 

The Remy Laser emits specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the nail to destroy fungal cells without affecting the surrounding nails and skin.

Remy Laser therapy offers the following benefits:

  • Effective treatment. Clinical studies demonstrate that Remy Laser therapy is highly effective at clearing up nail fungus for many patients, making it a powerful option for those seeking relief.
  • Safe and comfortable. The therapy is generally very safe with minimal risk of side effects, offering a gentle approach to treating nail fungus.
  • Non-surgical. Unlike surgical treatments, Remy Laser therapy doesn’t require incisions or anesthesia, so you can avoid the discomfort and long recovery times associated with surgery.
  • Quick and convenient. Sessions are brief, typically lasting just 15 to 30 minutes, and you can go back to your usual activities right after the treatment.
  • Long-lasting results. Many patients see lasting improvements in their nail health and appearance after undergoing Remy Laser therapy.

MLS Laser Therapy

MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate deep into the tissues, promoting cellular repair and reducing inflammation. This non-invasive therapy is effective for treating a variety of conditions, including tendonitis, arthritis, and soft tissue injuries. The benefits of MLS Laser Therapy include:

  • Pain relief. Reduces pain by promoting the release of endorphins and decreasing inflammation.
  • Accelerated healing. Stimulates cellular activity, leading to faster tissue repair and recovery.
  • Improved mobility. Helps restore range of motion and flexibility by reducing swelling and stiffness.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections involve extracting a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the PRP into the injured area. Platelets contain growth factors that can enhance tissue repair and reduce inflammation. PRP therapy is used to treat conditions such as chronic tendinitis, ligament injuries, and joint pain.   

It offers benefits such as:

  • Faster healing. By delivering growth factors right to the injury, PRP injections help accelerate your body’s natural repair mechanisms.
  • Pain relief. PRP helps reduce inflammation and pain, making it a great option for chronic conditions.
  • Less downtime. This treatment can often eliminate the need for more invasive procedures and shorten your recovery time, getting you back to your routine quicker.

How Our Central Maryland Podiatrists Can Help You Recover

Whether battling a chronic foot condition or healing from an injury, our innovative care strategies are designed to get you back to living a pain-free life. Here’s how our experienced team can make a difference:

  • Personalized treatment plans. We start by getting a detailed understanding of your unique condition through a comprehensive evaluation. Based on this, we create a treatment plan specifically designed for you. Whether you need minimally invasive surgery or the latest healing therapies, our approach is carefully tailored to fit your needs and goals.
  • Expert care and guidance. From explaining the details of your procedure to offering guidance on post-treatment care and rehabilitation, our commitment is to make your journey as smooth as possible. We want to make sure you understand what to expect and how to support your recovery.
  • Focus on recovery and return to activity. Our goal is to help you bounce back quickly and safely. We work closely with you to manage pain, track your progress, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.   
Eric Harmelin, DPM
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Experienced Amputation Prevention Specialist and Podiatrist in Annapolis and Stevensville, Maryland.