August 29, 2024

Meet Kelly Hynes, MD, MS

Foot and Ankle Specialist

Dr. Hynes is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in treating common and complex injuries and disorders of the foot and ankle.

Where are you from? 

I am from Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland, Canada. This is in the middle of a national park called Gros Morne.

What made you choose foot and ankle as an orthopedic specialty? 

I love all aspects of orthopedics like trauma, arthroscopy, arthroplasty and deformity correction and get to do all of this in foot and ankle, just in a focused anatomical area.

What brought you to Washington University Orthopedics? 

The incredible faculty and international reputation of the department!

What aspect of your practice do you find most rewarding?

Getting to know my patients in clinic and seeing how the care we provide can make a major difference their ability to enjoy life.

Is there a patient who made a lasting impact on you?

I had a patient who had suffered from post-traumatic ankle arthritis for many years and had an unsuccessful arthroscopy prior to seeing me. When I saw him and determined him to be a total ankle replacement candidate, he was overjoyed and had complete pain relief from his arthritis. He was so grateful to be able to travel with his family and enjoy time outside again.

What's on the horizon for foot and ankle care?

Continued advances in total ankle arthroplasty as well as increasing options for minimally invasive foot surgery.

What is the best advice you ever received? 

Say "I don't know" when you don't know.

What's your favorite thing to do outside of work?