Ankle replacement surgery is an effective treatment for severe arthritis that affects the ankle joint. This article discusses the surgical procedure, who can benefit from it, and the recovery process.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in Chardon and Middlefield, OH, we offer expert ankle replacement surgeries to help you regain your mobility and quality of life. Our team of skilled surgeons and medical professionals is dedicated to providing high-quality care tailored to your needs. Contact us today!
Ankle replacement surgery (also known as total ankle arthroplasty) is a specialized procedure designed to relieve the pain and restore mobility for those suffering from severe ankle arthritis. During this surgery, the foot and ankle surgeon removes the damaged portions of bone and cartilage and replaces them with prosthetic implants. The prosthesis consists of the following three parts:
This combination helps to alleviate pain while maintaining joint motion.
Ankle replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients who can no longer manage their ankle arthritis pain and swelling with nonsurgical treatments. If you’ve tried physical therapy, ankle braces, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or corticosteroid injections without significant relief, we might recommend ankle replacement for you.
Ankle arthritis is usually the reason why total ankle replacements might be recommended. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage covering the bones in a joint wears down, becoming thinner and rougher. This can result from aging, general wear and tear, repeated ankle injuries, fractures, or certain health conditions. Common symptoms of ankle arthritis include difficulty walking, joint pain, and swelling.
While many people find relief through conservative therapies such as medications, physical therapy, or orthotics, severe ankle arthritis often requires more targeted treatment. In such cases, total ankle replacement becomes a viable option to alleviate pain and restore function.
During the procedure, the surfaces of the tibia and talus bones are removed and replaced with metal components. A plastic insert is then placed between these metal pieces to facilitate smooth movement. The metal piece on the talus glides against the plastic piece attached to the tibial implant, effectively reducing pain and preserving joint motion.
Ankle surgery is performed under general anesthesia or using a nerve block.
Although ankle replacement surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks involved, including:
Recovery from ankle replacement surgery involves several stages. Immediately after surgery, your ankle will be in a cast, and you should avoid putting weight on the foot.
For the first two weeks, elevate your ankle above heart level to minimize swelling and promote wound and bone healing. During this time, you can get up for meals and bathroom breaks using crutches. After two weeks, your sutures will be removed, and you’ll switch to a removable boot. You’ll also start a home exercise program while keeping your leg elevated 60% of the time.
Around four weeks post-surgery, you can begin placing weight on your leg using the protective boot and start physical therapy. By eight weeks, you should be able to transition to wearing a regular shoe or sneakers for walking.
At four months, most patients feel better than they did before the surgery. By six months, you should be about 75% recovered, with full recovery typically achieved within a year.
If you’re struggling with ankle arthritis and considering ankle replacement surgery, contact us at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help you find the best solution for your needs and get you back on your feet.
Ankle replacement surgery can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility, allowing you to return to activities you enjoy. It also preserves the range of motion in the joint, unlike ankle fusion, which restricts movement. A successful ankle replacement can dramatically enhance your quality of life.
You might be a candidate if nonsurgical treatments haven’t alleviated your ankle arthritis symptoms and if you have severe pain and difficulty walking. A thorough evaluation by our specialists will determine if this procedure is right for you.
Recovery involves a period of immobilization followed by physical therapy. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few months, but full recovery can take up to a year. Your recovery plan will be tailored to your specific needs to ensure the best possible outcome.
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