Ankle Replacement Surgery
What is ankle replacement surgery?
Total ankle replacement is a joint replacement surgery also known as total ankle arthroplasty.
Ankle replacement surgery replaces damaged parts of the ankle with plastic or metal parts. These new parts work together and move like your natural joint. This treatment is usually only for people with ankle pain that doesn’t go away and affects their quality of life.
Ankle replacement surgery is an option especially for those who suffer from osteoarthritis. This is a condition where there is joint inflammation, pain, and swelling due to bone-on-bone grinding. This can wear away bone surfaces like the ankle without enough cartilage.
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Benefits of Ankle Replacement Surgery
Those suffering from arthritis in the ankle joint are usually recommended for surgery if no other treatments have been successful.
As you talk to your doctor to see if you are a candidate, consider the following benefits:
Pain Relief
Significant pain reduction and improved joint functionality after surgery
Improved Mobility
Surgery can help restore your ankle joint so you can engage in activities that may have been limited before
Preserved Motion
Surgery can help maintain motion at the joint while protecting the other joints of the foot
Long-Term Solution
Ankle replacement surgery can provide lasting relief and delay additional surgeries
What to Expect
As you prepare for ankle replacement surgery, you can expect the following:
- A meeting with your doctor to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes
- A thorough medical history to make sure you’re in good overall health
- You will receive general anesthesia so you are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery
- The doctor will make an incision on the front of the ankle
- The damaged cartilage and bone is removed
- Artificial joint components are placed to replicate the natural joint structure
- After securing the joint, the surgeon closes the incision and wraps it carefully
- You’ll likely stay in the hospital for a day or two to monitor your improvement
- You’ll need to use crutches or a walker for several weeks
- Physical therapy is often recommended to help your ankle regain its strength and stability
- You will follow up with your doctor to monitor your return to daily activities and exercise
Types of Ankle Implants
You may also discuss with your doctor if you need:
Ankle Fusion
Where the surgeon roughens the ends of the damaged bones and then fastens them together with metal plates and screws, allowing the bones to fuse together as you heal
Ankle Replacement
The surgeon removes the ends of the damaged bones and fits a plastic-and-metal replacement joint onto them
The artificial parts of the ankle implant are typically made from metal and medical-grade plastic, are placed into the ankle bones to replicate the natural joint structure. These components include a metal tibia component, a metal talus component, and a plastic spacer in between.
This will be determined based on your age, medical history, current health, activity level, and desired outcome.
Schedule Your Ankle Replacement Consultation Today
If chronic ankle pain is limiting your quality of life, contact Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance today at 414-384-6700. Our orthopedic specialists in Southeastern Wisconsin will evaluate your condition and help you determine if ankle replacement surgery is the right option for you.