Ankle Fusion Testimonials

I had my complex ankle fusion operation performed by Mark Herron at the Foot and Ankle Clinic in Edgbaston in October 2006. I had spent over a year putting this off as other surgeons had left me with a feeling that an open procedure was a major operation and that whilst the arthritic pain would be gone my future mobility was not guaranteed. Indeed I was told that there was no chance of me being able to run again which was very difficult news for a sportsman such as myself.
My first consultation with Mr Mark Herron easily convinced me that I should entrust my ankle operation to him. Not only did he discuss things with me as a person rather than a human with a bad ankle but he explained that he could do the procedure via arthroscopy rather than open surgery thus reducing the recovery time. The staff at the Clinic were excellent and the operation went well and I was soon up and about in an Aircast boot which gave me good mobility.
It was hard to stop myself wanting to do things too quickly during the recovery process but you cannot rush it. However I am now back at the gym, run 5K regularly and play golf as often as I can, not bad for 57, even without an ankle fusion.

J Barnes
London

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I can honestly admit I was more than a little concerned with the prospect of undergoing surgery on, by now my very degraded and painful ankle.
My options were fully explained and after careful consideration I finally requested the fusion procedure. Mr Heron fully kept me up to date with all details and what to expect; even to the extent of showing me videos of previous patients walking after the operation.
After the operation in 2005 I experienced some discomfort for approx 6 weeks, but always thought that my ankle movement would be greatly restricted, resulting in curtailing my two main passions; motorcycling and my local gym. It could not have been further from the truth, as virtually full movement had been achieved and gymnasium and motorcycle activities are back to normal.
I do not limp when walking and still manage to run on occasions. I have experienced no adverse effects from the operation and have not missed out on any of my previous activities.
Overall, the operation, pre and after care was a complete success and I must fully endorse this procedure.

T Solomon
West Midlands



I attended the Foot and Ankle Clinic several times and felt the Clinic to be efficient and well run. The staff where friendly and reassuring and there was the use of the lifts and a wheelchair if needed. The Clinic is second to none.
My surgery has been a great success. I spent approximately threes months post op wearing an Aircast boot, which was comfortable and could be removed for showering etc.
I had regular checkups afterwards to make sure bone was forming to fuse the ankle. Going across to the x-ray department was always quick and efficient. Mr Mark Herron always explained things to me clearly throughout the process.
Finally I would like to say that my ankle fusion has turned my life around. Beforehand I was in much pain when weight bearing and I am now completely pain free. I am able to walk for miles again, including over rugged ground. I regularly cycle and ride my horse without limitations. I walk perfectly normally and no-one would be aware that I have had an ankle fusion.

S Rollo
Birmingham



It is with pleasure I write this testimonial to the Foot and Ankle Clinic. The experience has helped me turn my life around. I am now able to enjoy my life on the golf course playing twice weekly.
The Foot and Ankle Clinic was first class with very helpful and friendly staff in all departments.
The surgery was again excellent - over and done before I realised it and now bearly noticeable.
I would have no hesitation in recommending anyone (and I have done) to the Foot and Ankle Clinic.
Thank you most sincerely for what you were able to do for me.
Wishing you all the best for the future.

G Hilditch
Northern Ireland



I would like to update you on my progress after the two operation that you performed on both my ankles last year 2007. I had advanced osteoarthritis in both ankles and was becoming increasingly less mobile and more overweight. I came to your consultancy rooms at the Priory Hospital Birmingham in April 2007. At that time you examined me and estimated my walking time at 5 minutes.
On the 16th May 2007 I had my first operation which was a fusion of my left ankle and sub-talar joints this was a great success and I left hospital after 3 days.
On the 24th October 2007 I had my second operation under Mr Mark Herron, which was a fusion of my right ankle. This again was a success and I left the hospital after only 2 days.
The situation now is that I am completing bicycle rides in excess of 25 miles and have just completed a 6.5 mile walk (new personal record). I go from strength to strength on a daily basis and I am looking forward to completing a 10 mile walk in September for the Heart Foundation.
These two operations have transformed my life for which I will be eternally grateful to the Priory Hospital, its staff and especially to Mr Mark Herron for accepting me as a patient and using his unbelievable skill to return me to a mobility situation that I have not enjoyed for almost 20 years.
If any future patients should consider the same treatment and are somewhat apprehensive, I suggest they be referred to the excellent and informative Foot and Ankle Clinic. I found this most useful as it gave me the opportunity to understand my problem, the surgery and to ask the right questions.
Finally at 64 years old this year I walk without pain, I have no walking aids and I walk in the same types of shoes (off the shelf) as I did before my problems began many years before.
Once again I am eternally grateful for your skill and dedication to people who suffer from the terrible pain of osteoarthritis.

D Young
South Staffordshire




My experience of the Foot and Ankle Clinic is that it is professionally and efficiently run. I felt at ease and a real person in pleasant surroundings. Knowledgeable, concerned staff that cared what happened to me was also my experience.
The ankle fusion surgery at the Foot and Ankle Clinic was successful and remedied the faults with my ankle. After being unable to walk unaided for 14 months my quality of life has practicially returned to normal. Followup treatment was also very good with no stone left unturned. An example of this was a query DVT which was immediately checked and reported back on. Again very good supportive nursing staff in attendance.
Physiotherapy and occupational therapy treatment was particularly good bothy before and after my ankle fusion surgery. The staff completely put my mind at ease and answered all necessary and possibly unnecessary questions I put to them.

Y Ogden
Birmingham

If you wish to learn more about Ankle Fusion please select the phrase and the link will take you straight to the relevant section within the website.