Ankle Surgery

There are many different types of surgical procedures to treat ankle conditions. This article will discuss the types of ankle surgery available and the conditions they treat. We will also talk about the recovery process.

If you would like to speak to an expert podiatrist about ankle surgery, consider visiting Precision Orthopaedic Specialities in Chardon and Middlefield, OH. We treat a range of ankle conditions using non-surgical and surgical treatments. Contact us today!

Understanding Ankle Surgery

There are many different types of ankle surgeries used to treat foot and ankle conditions. Ankle surgery may be recommended when conservative treatment does not relieve foot and ankle pain.

It may also be recommended as a first line of treatment in serious conditions or injuries. The type of ankle surgery recommended will depend on many factors, such as the type of condition you have, your age, and your activity level.

Doctors performing ankle surgery in Chardon, Ohio.

Types of Ankle Surgeries

There are many different types of ankle surgeries that can be used to treat foot and ankle conditions.

Ankle Fusion

This procedure may be recommended for severe arthritis. Your surgeon will remove damaged tissue from the joint surfaces and then fasten the bones together with metal plates and screws. The damaged ankle bones will then fuse together during the healing process to form one bone.

Ankle fusion is a very effective way of treating arthritis pain. One downside to the procedure is that it reduces ankle movement. This can put extra strain on other joints thereby increasing the risk of arthritis developing in these joints too.

Younger people with active lifestyles are often good candidates for ankle fusion.

Ankle Replacement Surgery

Ankle replacement is another surgery that can be used to treat severe arthritis. The damaged ends of the bones are removed and replaced with plastic and metal replacements.

An ankle replacement will allow natural movement of the ankle; however, some patients experience a loosening of the components. This procedure is often recommended to healthy adults over the age of 60 who do not have a very active lifestyle. This is because an artificial ankle joint can be damaged by high-impact activities.

Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that can be used to treat arthritis and injuries. The surgeon only needs to make small incisions in the ankle to perform this procedure. Through these incisions, the surgeon inserts special instruments that can be used to diagnose and treat ankle conditions.

Ankle arthroscopy can be used to remove loose bone fragments, fix damaged cartilage, and treat torn ligaments.

Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction (Brostrom Procedure)

This procedure can be used to treat chronic ankle instability or foot deformities. Your surgeon will make a small incision on the outside of your ankle to access the ligaments. They will then tighten the ligaments to improve stability in your ankle.

Ankle Fracture Repair Surgery

Surgery may be needed to repair an ankle fracture. The purpose of surgery is to stabilize the broken pieces while the bone heals. Your surgeon may hold the bones in place using metal plates, screws, and wires.

Tendon Surgery

Tendon surgery can be used to treat chronic tendonitis or synovitis of the ankle. It is also used to treat Achilles tendon tears. The surgeon may remove the diseased tendon tissue or repair a tear. In the case of a torn Achilles tendon tear, a tendon graft may be taken from another part of the body and used to repair the Achilles tendon.

The Risks of Ankle Surgery

As with all surgical procedures, there is a possibility of complications. The risks of ankle surgery include the following:

Recovering from Ankle Surgery

Following ankle surgery, your ankle will be immobilized using a cast or medical boot. Immobilization will allow your ankle time to heal and protect it from further damage.

When your cast or boot has been removed, you will need to begin physical therapy. Exercises will be given to restore strength and mobility in your ankle joint. You should be able to return to normal activities within 6 to 8 weeks.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you would like to know more about ankle surgery and how it can help you, contact the expert podiatrists at Precision Orthopaedic Specialities in Northeastern OH. Our experts use the latest technology to provide non-surgical and surgical treatments tailored to your needs. Book your visit today!