The Challenges of Syndesmosis surgery
It has been almost 60 years since the Syndesmosis Concept was first introduced in Italy, yet it remains relatively unknown. Despite sound surgical principles, indisputable evidence and unmatched results, mainstream medicine remains easily dismissive of something so radically different. Thus, the limited availability of Syndesmosis Surgery is a challenge with many layers.
- Lack of peer support – Peer acceptance is the primary challenge of Syndesmosis Surgery. Its surgical concept sits far outside the comfort zone of traditional orthopaedic and podiatric practices.
- Lack of commercial support – At present, Syndesmosis Surgery is performed with the most basic of surgical instruments that are available in any standard operating room. They lack the commercial push associated with new instruments or implants.
- Lack of subsidization – Insurance companies actually remunerate doctors more to cut bones and fuse joints. When all the actual long-term benefits to insurance companies are recognized, hopefully this will change too.
- Lack of awareness – It may take some time for Syndesmosis Surgery to be integrated into training programs for future surgeons. The first step is initial acceptance.
- Lack of understanding – Comparative studies between Syndesmosis Surgery and traditional surgeries are not yet available and surface perceptions of Syndesmosis Surgery may not be accurate.
Dedicated to the root problem
Despite all challenges facing Syndesmosis Surgery, we are inspired by stories of persistence within the medical field. In 1981, Dr. Barry Marshall drank an infected broth to demonstrate to disbelievers that bacteria is the main culprit in causing the common stomach ulcer – not spicy food and not the stress of a high-pressure lifestyle.
It took over 20 years of campaigning before the medical community recognized this true pathology for stomach ulcers. Now millions of people look to antibiotics to provide a simple solution to what was historically thought to be a complex problem. It will take time for others to recognize the true pathology for bunion formation and for Syndesmosis Surgery to become more accepted. We’re pleased to see others helping the effort in the United States and around the world:
Are you a doctor and interested in learning Syndesmosis Surgery?