02/06/2025     Brant McCartan, DPM

The Passing of Stephen Isham, DPM

It is with profound sorrow that I share the
passing of our beloved colleague, mentor, and
friend, Dr. Stephen A. Isham—a visionary pioneer
whose unwavering dedication revolutionized
minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for the foot and
ankle. His departure leaves an irreplaceable void
in our hearts and in the medical community, yet
his legacy will forever illuminate the path he
forged.

Dr. Isham was not merely a surgeon; he was a
trailblazer. His innovative techniques and
relentless pursuit of excellence transformed
patient outcomes, setting new standards for
precision, recovery, and compassion in our field.
As a founding pillar of this Academy, he shaped
its mission to educate, innovate, and elevate the
practice of MIS. His lectures were masterclasses
in ingenuity, his hands-on trainings a testament
to his generosity, and his mentorship a gift that
inspired countless surgeons to embrace his
visionary approach.

Beyond his professional brilliance, Stephen was a
man of profound kindness. He greeted every
challenge with optimism, every colleague with
respect, and every patient with empathy. His door
was always open, his advice both sage and
heartfelt. He believed in lifting others as he
climbed, fostering a community rooted in
collaboration rather than competition.

Though we grieve this loss, let us also celebrate
his extraordinary life. Dr. Isham’s legacy lives
on in the techniques we practice, the students he
nurtured, and the patients whose lives he
restored. Let us honor him by advancing the
principles he cherished: innovation with
integrity, education with humility, and care
without compromise.

To his family, we extend our deepest condolences.
Thank you for sharing Stephen with us—his impact
will resonate for generations.

In solidarity and gratitude,

Brant McCartan, DPM, President, Academy of
Minimally Invasive Foot and Ankle Surgery

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