Living with chronic ankle pain can significantly hinder your daily activities and overall quality of life. If conservative treatments have failed to provide relief, total ankle replacement surgery may be a viable option to restore function and alleviate discomfort.
At the Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, we specialize in advanced surgical techniques to address complex foot and ankle conditions. If you’re considering ankle replacement, contact us to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options.
Visiting an orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.
“One of the best doctors I have ever worked with concerning my joint issues. Knowledgeable, patient focused, and takes his time with you. I’ve had 4 joint replacements and he is the best. I would recommend him to anyone needing an ankle replacement.” — Edgar M.
Total ankle replacement, also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged ankle joint with an artificial implant. This procedure aims to relieve pain and restore mobility in patients suffering from severe ankle arthritis or other degenerative joint diseases.
By preserving ankle motion, total ankle replacement offers an alternative to ankle fusion, which eliminates all joint movement.
Ankle joint replacement is primarily indicated for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis, where the cartilage has worn away, causing bone-on-bone contact and significant pain. Other conditions that may necessitate ankle replacement include post-traumatic arthritis resulting from previous injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain deformities that impair joint function.
When conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and orthotics fail to relieve pain, surgical intervention may be necessary. In such cases, reconstructive surgery like total ankle replacement can provide significant benefits by restoring joint function and improving quality of life.
Preparation for total ankle arthroplasty involves several steps to ensure a successful outcome. Your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies, to assess the extent of joint damage. Preoperative instructions may include:
It’s crucial to discuss any medical conditions, such as diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, with your surgeon, as these may influence surgical outcomes.
Total ankle replacement surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or a nerve block. During the procedure, an incision is made in the front of the ankle to access the joint. Then your doctor will carry out the following:
The artificial implant typically consists of metal and plastic components designed to mimic the natural movement of the ankle joint. The procedure usually requires a hospital stay of one to two days.
Like any surgical procedure, total ankle replacement carries potential risks, including:
However, the benefits often outweigh the risks for suitable candidates. Advantages of ankle replacement include:
It’s important to note that not all patients are ideal candidates for ankle replacement. Factors such as poor bone quality, severe deformities, or certain medical conditions may lead your surgeon to recommend alternative treatments.
Recovery from total ankle replacement surgery is a gradual process that typically spans several months. The general timeline includes:
Adherence to your rehabilitation program is essential for optimal outcomes. Regular follow-up appointments will monitor the healing process and the integrity of the ankle implant.
If you’re experiencing chronic ankle pain that interferes with your daily life, total ankle replacement surgery may offer the relief you need. At the Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care and advanced surgical solutions.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward improved mobility and quality of life.
Medically reviewed by Roberto A. Brandão, DPM, FACFAS
