20th January 2010
World-leading ankle replacement technology and techniques developed in the West attracted many of the world’s leading foot and ankle surgeons to a symposium at Spire Bristol Hospital this week.
The event was hosted jointly by Ian Winson, one of Britain’s leading ankle surgeons, and Corin, the Cirencester-based designer and manufacturer of orthopaedic devices.
Together they have created an innovative third-generation titanium total ankle replacement known as Zenith which incorporates long-lasting surface coatings and advanced instrumentation.
Mr Winson, who specialises in the treatment of sports injuries, is past president of both the European Foot and Ankle Society and the British Orthopaedic Foot Surgery Society. He advises the England cricket squad on foot and ankle injuries and has treated a wide range of sports stars from rugby, football, cricket and athletics at the Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic (SOC) in Bristol.
Visiting surgeons from as far afield as South America watched on screen while Mr Winson fitted the new Zenith ankle replacement during two operations while also holding two-way discussions with his audience.
The symposium also featured state-of-the-art teaching sessions in which guest surgeons were able to practice techniques with a special set of instruments using the Zenith on plastic bones.
Mr Winson said: “It is encouraging that surgeons from around the world are attending symposiums like this. Ankle replacements have improved immeasurably during the last 20 years to the point where the results are beginning to match up to other forms of major joint replacements. They are not suitable for all patients with ankle arthritis but they are suitable for a growing number.”
Corin’s Global Knee Product Manager Nico Brezan added: “With increasing numbers of total ankle replacements being implanted year on year, it is very important for companies to provide appropriate training on their systems. At Corin, we take pride in running courses to support surgeons from around the world to encourage discussion and sharing of best practice”
Spire Bristol Hospital director Rob Anderson commented: “As the predominant independent provider of high quality complex surgery in the South West we undertake a large volume of highly specialist operations and our new facilities here at The Glen allow us to contribute to the advancement of medical education by hosting important events such as this.”