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Health & Fitness

Putting the Steps Back into Patients' Lives

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Gary Schmidt explains how ankle replacement surgery can improve patients' lives.

by Gary Schmidt, MD, orthopedic surgeon on staff at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital, who specializes in foot and ankle surgery

Over time, many active adults experience ankle joint deterioration, reduced range of motion and decreased quality of life. Arthritis, bone degeneration and injury are major causes of ankle stress.

During the last six years, I have performed as many as 300 ankle replacements at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. Total ankle replacement surgery is similar to other joint replacements like knees and hips because it is done with the use of a prosthesis made of similar materials. I use a system which utilizes CAD(computer aided design) technology to make an exact model of a person’s ankle, helping patients maintain motion and minimize pain.

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This is a procedure that works, and it’s a gratifying surgery for the both the patient and me because ankle pain, particularly arthritis, can be extremely debilitating.

My ankle replacement surgery patients have ranged in age from 28 to 92. Patients are commonly in their 50s, 60s, or 70s and have suffered an ankle injury at some time in their lives and are often suffering from arthritis. A personal assessment and X-rays can determine if a person is a good candidate for surgery. The surgery typically lasts less than two hours and involves an overnight hospital stay.

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Each case is unique, but we’ve seen great success with this surgery. It’s gratifying to have a patient say ‘you changed my life.’

If you would like to learn more about ankle replacement, I am hosting a free lecture that is open to the community on April 17, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center, Staenburg Family Complex. To register, call 314-542-WEST (9378).

 

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