#United States #Atlanta #Georgia #Shotel Medical #Ankle Arthrodesis

Shotel™ Medical Revolutionizes Ankle Surgery

Recently, Georgia has witnessed a significant advancement in ankle surgery options, thanks to the introduction of the Shotel™ Ankle Arthrodesis Nail System. This innovative device, tailored for treating end-stage ankle arthritis, represents a crucial development in orthopedic care. It was successfully employed for the first time in the state by Dr. Gary W. Stewart, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and foot and ankle specialist at Resurgens Orthopaedics in Atlanta, on January 8, 2025.

Traditionally, patients undergoing ankle arthrodesis faced a post-surgery non-weight-bearing period of six to eight weeks. However, the Shotel Nail System dramatically reduces this recovery time, allowing patients to begin weight-bearing activities using a Controlled Ankle Motion (CAM) walker boot just two weeks after surgery. This expedited healing process signifies a substantial improvement in both the surgical technique and patient care.

Innovative Design and Benefits

The Shotel Nail System, developed by Shotel Medical and distributed by BioPro, Inc., features a uniquely curved nail design. This design necessitates only small incisions, enabling a minimally invasive surgical approach. As it fuses the tibiotalar joint, it maintains full mobility of the surrounding joints, promoting faster healing and a quicker return to everyday activities for patients.

Estimates indicate that approximately 50,000 new cases of end-stage ankle arthritis arise each year in the United States, particularly affecting the aging baby boomer population. As the condition can lead to severe physical impairment, the Shotel Nail System aptly meets this pressing need in the medical community.

Dr. Stewart articulated his confidence in the device's long-term stability and durability, particularly in cases involving significant prior injuries and severe arthritis, as was the situation with his recent patient. The Shotel Nail's easy application during surgery and its minimally invasive approach were notable advantages, according to Dr. Stewart. The ability to perform the procedure arthroscopically minimized additional trauma to the patient's already damaged ankle, which had suffered from multiple injuries.

Furthermore, he highlighted the device's excellent fixation and multiple compression layers that facilitate rapid healing at the fusion site—all pivotal for improving patient outcomes. Patients undergoing this revolutionary treatment are expected to experience less pain post-operation due to the smaller incision size.

Company Overview

Shotel Medical, the innovator behind the Shotel™ Ankle Arthrodesis Nail System, aims to redefine medical treatment for those suffering from end-stage ankle arthritis. Developed alongside a team of biomechanical engineers and orthopedic experts, the device is tailored to cater to the specific needs of these patients, ultimately enhancing their quality of life and promising a quicker return to function.

Founded in 2017, Shotel Medical operates from its bases in New Orleans and Atlanta, pursuing a mission to transform healthcare standards and patient expectations in orthopedic surgery.

BioPro, Inc., the distributor of the Shotel Nail System, has been a leader in orthopedic innovation for over 30 years. The company focuses on developing surgical devices and implants that prioritize patient outcomes through reduced pain and increased functionality. The merger of such advanced technology with the expertise of orthopedic specialists like Dr. Stewart represents a landmark moment in ankle surgery, paving the way for enhanced patient care in the future.

As Shotel Medical's device garners attention, it is expected to address a significant gap in the treatment of ankle arthritis, promising to improve recovery rates while ultimately transforming the patient's quality of life.