Total Ankle Replacement

For anyone dealing with end-stage ankle arthritis (marked by motion limitations or worn joint surfaces) treatment options are few. In this context, ankle joint replacement surgery presents itself as a viable option, promising restoration of function and relief from debilitating pain.

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FAQs

The History of Total Ankle Replacement

Ankle replacement surgery dates back to the 1970s, when a pioneering physician attempted to replace the ankle with an inverted total hip replacement. In the years that followed, efforts often failed due to a lack of a dependable surgical solution. Poor implant attachment methods, imprecise placement, and misalignment with natural joint mechanics made early attempts unsuccessful.

The surgical landscape evolved with the advent of second-generation implants in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Over the last few decades, refinements in instrumentation, materials, and engineering have propelled ankle replacement into the realm of a viable alternative to joint fusion for a subset of patients.

Elderly man holding his ankle, ankle pain. Sprained and swollen ankle
Trekking in the forest

Successful Outcomes of Ankle Replacement Surgery

Today, successful surgical outcomes are very good and offer a level of predictability and functionality surpassing that of ankle fusion. Unlike fusion, which curtails the ankle’s up-and-down motion, total ankle replacement preserves joint mobility, thereby enhancing overall function.

The motion of the ankle implant also serves a protective role for neighboring foot joints, mitigating the risk of arthritis development due to the amplified stress accompanying ankle fusion. Patients with ankle fusion are almost always confronted with arthritis in adjacent foot joints within a decade post-surgery.

These procedures are performed in the hospital on an outpatient basis. I allow full weight bearing in most cases within 2 weeks after surgery.

Dr. Jack Schuberth of Bay Area Foot Care
Arthroscopy Subtalar

Since 2005, several revolutionary implant designs have successfully navigated the FDA approval process. These designs boast significant advantages over their predecessors, including streamlined placement procedures and enhanced instrumentation accuracy. Noteworthy examples we have used in our clinic include APEX 3DTM, InboneTM, InfinityTM, InvisionTM, CadenceTM, Salto TalarisTM, STARTM, VantageTM, and Zimmer Trabecular MetalTM implants.

FAQs

Total Ankle Replacement (TAR) is a surgical procedure where a damaged ankle joint is replaced with an artificial implant to relieve pain and restore mobility.

Candidates typically suffer from severe ankle arthritis or have had previous unsuccessful surgeries and are experiencing significant pain and impaired mobility.

The surgery usually takes about two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of implant used.
Recovery varies, but patients generally spend 2-3 days in the hospital, with total recovery taking several months. Physical therapy is a crucial part of recovery.
Yes, there will be a scar, but its size and visibility depend on the surgical technique used and individual healing processes.
As with any surgery, risks include infection, blood clots, implant failure, and nerve damage, but the majority of patients undergo surgery without any complications.
Ankle replacements can last 10 years or more, but the longevity of the implant varies with usage and individual circumstances.
High-impact sports are generally not recommended post-surgery, but many patients can return to low-impact activities once fully healed.
Preparation may involve physical evaluations, medication adjustments, and arranging for post-operative support at home.
Success rates are high, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved ankle function, although individual outcomes can vary.

Our Experts

Jonathan Hook DPM

Jonathan Hook, DPM

  • Weil Foot & Ankle Institute – Libertyville, IL
  • Weil Foot & Ankle Institute – Mount Prospect, IL
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Jonathan Hook DPM

Jonathan Hook, DPM

  • Weil Foot & Ankle Institute – Libertyville, IL
  • Weil Foot & Ankle Institute – Mount Prospect, IL
Learn More
Jonathan Hook DPM

Jonathan Hook, DPM

  • Weil Foot & Ankle Institute – Libertyville, IL
  • Weil Foot & Ankle Institute – Mount Prospect, IL
Learn More

Advantages of Total Ankle Replacement

Preservation of ankle joint motion, a pivotal facet for everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and engaging in recreational activities. Ideal candidates for ankle replacement are individuals over 50 years old who maintain a healthy weight and are not engaged in rigorous physical activities.

Post-surgery, patients can resume many activities like walking and hiking to swimming and biking. Conversely, activities such as running, basketball, tennis, and heavy lifting should be avoided.

Also, individuals with advanced diabetes, compromised bone quality, or circulatory issues may not be suitable candidates for ankle replacement.

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