Innovative “Awake” Foot and Ankle Surgery Reducing Wait Times and Improving Patient Care at Horizon

(HORIZON) – Horizon Health Network’s (Horizon’s) orthopedic surgery team in Saint John is transforming the way foot and ankle surgeries are performed by offering a revolutionary technique that reduces wait times, improves patient recovery, and eliminates many of the risks associated with traditional surgical approaches.

By using a combination of local anaesthesia and surgeon-administered nerve blocks, patients are able to comfortably undergo their foot and ankle surgical procedures while remaining fully awake, eliminating the need for general anesthesia, reducing complications and allowing patients to recover comfortably at home.

This technique is led by Dr. Jacob Matz, who is the only foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon in Atlantic Canada offering this unique and advanced option for surgical care.

Since it was introduced in the spring of 2025, at Horizon’s Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH), awake foot and ankle surgery has already had a significant impact on patient experience and surgical waitlists.

“This technique not only makes surgery safer for many patients, but it also improves access by allowing us to perform more procedures with fewer delays,” said Dr. Matz, orthopedic surgeon at SJRH. “We’re seeing positive results in terms of patient comfort, surgical efficiency, and reduced wait times.”

Over 50 patients have undergone this new surgical approach, including surgeries for hallux valgus (bunions), forefoot arthritis and deformity, ankle impingement, and other foot and ankle conditions.

“Horizon’s commitment to advancing surgical techniques and providing excellence in hospital care is at the heart of this initiative,” said Amy McCavour, Clinical Executive Director of Horizon Surgical Services. “By reducing barriers to care and offering innovative solutions, Horizon is setting a new standard in orthopedic surgery.”

To ensure the continued success and proper evaluation of awake surgery, the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation has generously provided funding to support ongoing research. Canada East Foot & Ankle is collecting data on outcomes, patient satisfaction, and system-level impacts such as OR efficiency and cost savings. The results of this research will guide expansion of awake surgery to other procedures and facilities across the province.

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