Implant Insertion

Implant placement is a modern surgical procedure that aims to:

• restoration of foot function;
• correction of deformities;
• stabilization of bones and joints of the foot after injuries and fractures;
• improving the appearance of the foot, restoring its normal shape and proportions.

At the Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic under the direction of Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, the use of implants can effectively solve a wide range of problems associated with deformities, injuries and diseases of the feet.

When Is Implant Insertion Recommended?

Implant placement is recommended in a number of cases when conservative treatment fails to produce the expected results.

Implant placement may be recommended if you have:

1. Chronic joint pain.
2. Joint instability: abnormal mobility caused by trauma, ligamentous tears or degenerative changes.
3. Toe deformities: hallux valgus (big toe bone), hammer toes, big toe deformity, sprains and subluxations.

In some cases, implants are recommended after certain types of foot or ankle surgeries to ensure stability and normal joint function. Also, to prevent the progression of foot deformities, which helps to avoid more serious complications and the need for further surgery.

Preparation for Surgery

Preparing for implant surgery is an important step to help ensure a successful procedure and a quick recovery for the patient. Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic provides comprehensive preparation, including pre-operative examinations and consultations with a podiatric surgeon, anesthesiologist, and therapist (if necessary).

At the consultation with the podologist, the doctor will perform an examination, review your medical history, ask questions about your health and lifestyle. Our doctor will lay out the plan of surgery, expected results, possible risks and peculiarities of the rehabilitation period. Dr. Yanovskiy may prescribe a number of diagnostic tests, including:

• urine tests;
• general and biological blood tests;
• coagulogram: to assess blood clotting;
• MRI or CT x-rays: to examine the soft tissues and structures of the foot in more detail.
• Angiography: to evaluate the condition of the blood vessels.

Our doctor will make the necessary recommendations two weeks before surgery. These may include:

• stop smoking and alcohol consumption;
• eliminate heavy foods from the diet;
• stop taking blood thinning medications (in consultation with the doctor);
• inform the doctor about all medications and biologically active supplements.

On the day of surgery:

• Do not eat 6 hours before surgery.
• Take the medications prescribed by the doctor in the morning.

The patient should arrange in advance with relatives or friends for help in the first days after the operation, especially if mobility restrictions are required.

The Implant Insertion Procedure

The implant procedure is a high-tech surgical procedure that aims to restore function and aesthetics to the foot. To provide patients with the best possible outcome, Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic utilizes state-of-the-art techniques and different types of implants.

Ankle Implants

• Used to replace damaged joint surfaces in arthritis or severe ankle injuries.
• They are made of biocompatible materials (titanium or ceramic) that ensure durability and minimal risk of rejection.

Big toe implants

• Used to treat big toe deformities (hallux valgus) and arthritis.
• Include metal and plastic components that allow normal joint mobility.

Nail implants

• Addresses the problem of repairing a nail bed affected by fungal infection or trauma.
• The material of manufacture is medical silicone or biocompatible polymers.

Implants for correction of hammer toe

• The purpose of application is to correct the deformity of the finger, when it is bent in the medial joint.
• These are metal pins or plates that fix the finger in the correct position.

These implants have high strength and durability, providing stable results and long-lasting effects.

The procedure of implant placement is step-by-step

1. Local anesthesia with sedation: only the operated area is anesthetized.
2. Incision and access: performed with arthroscopic equipment that allows surgery through small incisions.
3. Removal of damaged tissue: careful removal of deformed or damaged areas of tissue and bone. Preparation of the joint surface for implant placement 
4. Implant placement: placement and fixation of the implant on the prepared surface.
5. Suturing and closing the incision: the incisions are closed using sutures or staples that can be removed after a few weeks. A sterile dressing is applied to the surgical area

Recovery and Aftercare

After implant surgery, it is important to follow recovery and care recommendations to ensure successful healing and a quick return to normal activity.

1. Follow your doctor's instructions.
2. Keep the wound clean; the dressing should be clean and dry.
3. Wear special shoes.
4. Avoid putting stress on the foot until it is fully healed.
5. Follow your doctor's recommendations for the use of crutches or other aids.

Pain management can be helped by:

• pain medications prescribed by a doctor;
• applying ice to the foot;
• keeping the foot in an elevated position;
• gentle massage of the foot.

Physical therapy is an important part of rehabilitation.

A physical therapist will choose exercises to help you:

1. Improve joint mobility in the foot.
2. Strengthen muscles.
3. Reduce pain and swelling.
4. Prevent complications.

Our specialists will monitor your recovery process and provide the necessary assistance.

Benefits of Implant Insertion at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, led by Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, specializing in the treatment of foot conditions. You can undergo implant surgery with us with a number of advantages.

1. Our doctors are highly practiced in implant placement, using only modern surgical techniques.
2. We individualize the treatment plan for each patient.
3. Our clinic uses the latest modern equipment for diagnosis and treatment.
4. All surgeries are performed under sedation to maximize patient comfort.
5. We use special rehabilitation techniques that help patients recover quickly after surgery.

At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, we strive to make the treatment process as comfortable and efficient as possible. Our specialists are always available to answer your questions and help you make the right decision.