Back on His Feet: Saasha’s Ankle Fracture Recovery Journey in Vietnam

Saasha, 47, from Ukraine, led a fulfilling life until he sustained an ankle injury. The ankle fracture was sudden and very painful; his ankle was now swollen and unable to move, making walking or putting any weight or pressure on the foot impossible. His ankle was placed in a temporary cast immediately after the injury, but after days of discomfort and concern about whether it would heal properly, he became concerned.

After a week, Saasha found it extremely difficult to move around. If he wanted to do anything during that week, he would have to rely on someone's help. Saasha wanted to make sure that his ankle healed correctly after the fracture so that he could avoid complications later on; the complications could lead to a stiff joint, a misaligned bone, or chronic pain that would follow him for the rest of his life. Fortunately, Saasha realised that expert orthopedic medical assistance was necessary if he wanted to achieve the best possible outcome, so he sought out specialised treatment overseas to receive the most accurate evaluation and structured recovery process.

Through a direct referral, Saasha contacted MediGence, and through it Dr. Vishwas; after reviewing Saasha's medical records, Dr. Vishwas recommended that Saasha be assessed at a recognised international hospital. Dr. Vishwas and Saasha both soon realised that the main objective was to properly stabilise the ankle fracture in a way that would allow optimal healing of the bone and return Saasha to a fully functioning individual.

Selecting the Right Medical Team: Assoc. Prof. Luu Hong Hai at Vinmec Hospital

After careful deliberation, the country selected for Saasha's surgical procedures was Vietnam, known for its excellent healthcare system and patient-friendly environment after the initial date of contact with MediGence October 24, 2025. The hospital where Saasha received his treatment was the Vinmec International Hospital in Nha Trang, which is considered to be one of the best hospitals in Vietnam in terms of providing the full spectrum of orthopedic care.

Saasha arrived in Vietnam on November 5, 2025 and was amazed by how modern and organised the facilities were, and by how much effort went into making all international patients feel comfortable. Saasha's appointment for a consultation with his orthopedic doctor, Dr. Luu Hong Hai, who specialises in the treatment of situations involving broken bones and injuries to the musculoskeletal system, was arranged.

A Focused Treatment Plan for Bone Healing

When Saasha arrived for his appointment on 5 November, Dr Hong conducted a thorough, detailed examination of Saasha's injury, reviewing the imaging studies to confirm that his fracture was well aligned and to evaluate the extent of bone healing. Dr. Hong thoroughly explained Saasha's injury to him in a clear manner while reassuring him of a very good opportunity for healing through immobility and appropriate medical care post-surgery. By communicating with Saasha clearly and compassionately, Dr. Hong was able to make Saasha feel at ease immediately.

The treatment period was well planned to promote bone healing and maximise long-term benefits. After completing an extensive clinical assessment and review of imaging, the orthopedic surgeon believed that the fracture could be conservatively managed with an unbroken leg and that no surgical intervention would be necessary.

A high-quality, immobilising plaster cast (POP) was applied to the ankle in order to provide the best possible chance for a natural fusion of the two broken ends of the bone. Saasha was also prescribed pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as medications to support bone healing. She was given very clear instructions about how to use the cast properly by avoiding weight bearing, keeping the limb elevated, and how to take care of the cast on a daily basis. Regular monitoring of the patient was performed to ensure that no complications (swelling, circulatory problems, or delayed healing) had developed and that the treatment was both safe and effective.

The Healing Phase and Return to Mobility

Recovering from the application of a cast has been a positive experience for Saasha. He experienced a steady reduction in pain and swelling, and follow-up examinations confirmed that the fracture was healing as anticipated. He adhered strictly to his physician's instructions regarding weight-bearing activities and the use of mobility aids as needed.

While recovering, Saasha has followed all medical advice to the letter, making an enormous contribution toward a successful healing process and making an enormous difference in his rate of improvement (reduced pain and swelling). With adequate rest, adherence to medications, and guidance from follow-up visits, the bone healed to an acceptable level, allowing him to regain independent mobility and return to his normal activities with confidence.

After removing the cast, he began gentle exercises to rehabilitate and strengthen his ankle. With supervision, he took gradual steps to resume normal walking, allowing his joints time to adjust to movement. Ultimately, the fracture healed completely, and Saasha regained full range of motion in his ankle. He resumed activities of daily living without discomfort and returned to an active lifestyle he had missed throughout his recovery.

Beyond physical healing, the experience strengthened his sense of trust and independence. Being part of an organised plan of care and receiving timely intervention were significant factors in avoiding complications and achieving a successful outcome.

A Grateful Return to an Active Life

Saasha now lives without pain or restriction from his previous ankle injury, having healed completely and regained all motion following his injury with Dr. Kaushik's guidance and assistance throughout the healing process, and MediGence for their efforts to coordinate care and provide assistance.

Mumbai Hospital thanks Dr. Hong and the orthopedics team at Vinmec International Hospital for their expertise in recovery through patient-centred and seamless care. Saasha's healing process proves the importance of early orthopedic intervention, proper immobilisation, and expert follow-up for the management of fractures.

Saasha's experience demonstrates that with appropriate medical support, one need not let one's injury define one's future. This is also a clear demonstration of the resilience of Saasha's journey and the importance of establishing trust in the healing power of expert care and modern international healthcare to help improve the quality of life.