Potts Point & The Gardens Medical Centre
Consultations Available Within 7 Days
Priority for Emergencies
(02) 9020 7388
Dr Gordon Slater
MBBS FRACS (Orth) FAOrthA
An internationally-recognised orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Gordon Slater specialises in foot and ankle surgery and has studied at New York's Hospital for Special Surgery (the leading orthopaedic hospital in the US).
Dr Slater is one of the first foot and ankle surgeons in Australia to adopt minimally invasive surgical techniques. He routinely uses MIS to treat a range of conditions, including bunions. MIS has many advantages including shorter operating times, reduced post-operative pain, reduced risk of infection, minimal scarring and better cosmetic outcomes.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Many foot and ankle procedures may be performed through a series of tiny incisions (2-3 mm wide). Minimally invasive surgery generally results in decreased pain and swelling, faster recovery and minimal scarring.
Dr Slater is a leading exponent of minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques, having studied advanced foot and ankle surgery at New York's Hospital for Special Surgery – ranked no. 1 in the US for orthopaedics.
Bunion Correction
While bunions are extremely common, especially in women, they're also very treatable using minimally invasive techniques that help to preserve the appearance of your foot. This generally means that you won't need plaster or crutches, and in most cases, you'll be able to start walking within 48 hours.
Charcot Foot
Charcot foot is a serious complication of diabetes that can result in deformity, disability or amputation. Dr Slater's approach is to salvage the limb using the latest limb reconstructive techniques. The earlier you seek specialised treatment for this condition, the more options there are.
Sports Injuries
Many common sporting injuries (including ankle reconstruction and conditions requiring ankle arthroscopy) may be treated using minimally invasive surgical techniques. This form of keyhole surgery preserves the soft tissue of the foot, thereby speeding up the recovery process.
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons are medical specialists who are dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of injuries, disorders and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, nerves and tendons. Dr Slater is an orthopedic surgeon who specialists in the treatment of foot and ankle conditions.
Foot & Ankle Surgery
The foot is a complex system made up of twenty six bones, thirty three joints, one hundred and seven ligaments and nineteen muscles and tendons. The unique way your own foot is structured and how it works with the rest of your body adds to the complexity. A foot and ankle specialist has the detailed knowledge and experience to help restore mobility, get you moving as quickly as possible and to ease or eliminate pain.
Is foot & ankle pain normal?
Foot and ankle pain is extremely common, but it's not normal. Pain or discomfort in any part of the body is often a signal that there's a problem that needs to be evaluated, diagnosed and treated. Foot and ankle pain tends to worsen over time (especially as we age), so it's best to seek help sooner rather than later.
Is surgery always necessary?
No. Surgery is one option, but Dr Slater's approach is to start with the most conservative options available. In a medical context, a conservative approach refers to non-surgical treatments including, splints, medicines, podiatry or physiotherapy. Surgery is only recommended if these are not feasible treatment options. Dr Slater practices minimally invasive technologies right through to the more advanced reconstructive procedures using specialized implants and external frames. You'll be encouraged to discuss all aspects of your treatment options with him to make an informed, collaborative decision.
