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Total Ankle Replacement Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients
What is Total Ankle Replacement Surgery?
Who is a Candidate for Total Ankle Replacement?
Ankle replacement surgery is ideal for individuals who:
- Suffer from severe ankle arthritis that has not responded to conservative treatments
- Experience chronic pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking
- Have a history of ankle fractures or joint injuries
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for recovery
However, certain patients, such as those with severe bone loss, poor circulation, or active infections, may not be suitable candidates for this procedure. A podiatrist or orthopedic specialist will evaluate each case to determine the best treatment approach.
Benefits of Total Ankle Replacement
- Pain Relief: Replacing the damaged joint reduces chronic pain and inflammation.
- Improved Mobility: The procedure allows for greater range of motion compared to ankle fusion.
- Better Quality of Life: Patients can return to daily activities with reduced discomfort and increased stability.
- Preservation of Natural Movement: Unlike fusion surgery, which limits motion, ankle replacement maintains joint flexibility.
The Total Ankle Replacement Procedure
The surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general or spinal anesthesia to ensure a pain-free procedure.
- Incision: A small incision is made at the front or side of the ankle.
- Removal of Damaged Joint: The surgeon removes the worn-out cartilage and bone from the ankle joint.
- Implant Placement: A prosthetic joint made of metal and plastic components is positioned in place.
- Closure and Recovery: The incision is closed, and the foot is placed in a splint or cast to promote healing.
The procedure typically takes 2-3 hours, and most patients require an overnight hospital stay
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Post-surgery recovery is a crucial phase in ensuring successful outcomes. Here’s what to expect:
- Initial Weeks: Patients will need to keep weight off the ankle and use crutches or a walker.
- Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises will help restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.
- Gradual Weight Bearing: By 6-8 weeks, patients may transition to walking with supportive footwear.
- Full Recovery: Most individuals regain normal function within 3-6 months, although full healing may take up to a year.
Following the podiatrist’s post-operative care instructions is essential for a smooth recovery.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, total ankle replacement carries some risks, including:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Nerve damage
- Loosening or wear of the implant over tim
- Limited longevity of the prosthesis (may require revision surgery in the future)
However, with proper care and regular follow-ups, many patients experience long-term success and relief from chronic ankle pain.
Why Choose University Foot & Ankle Institute?
Total ankle replacement surgery offers a life-changing solution for individuals struggling with severe ankle arthritis or joint damage. By preserving mobility and reducing pain, this procedure allows patients to return to an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
At University Foot & Ankle Institute, our board-certified podiatrists are experts in Total Ankle Replacement Surgery.
If you are considering total ankle replacement, make an appointment today to determine whether this treatment is right for you.
Dr. Justin Franson, DPM, is a Board Certified Podiatric Foot and Ankle Specialist and Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. He attended the School College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago, graduating in 2001. Dr. Franson then accepted a three-year residency program at the Greater Los Angeles VA and UCLA County Hospital.
Dr. Franson specializes in several areas including total ankle replacement and sports medicine. Treating athletes and weekend warriors like himself brings him a lot of joy. Dr. Franson keeps active with running marathons, triathlons, hiking, basketball, and golf.
Dr. Bob Baravarian DPM, FACFAS is a Board-Certified Podiatric Foot and Ankle Specialist. He is an assistant clinical professor at the UCLA School of Medicine and serves as Director of University Foot and Ankle Institute.
Dr. Baravarian has been involved in athletics his entire life and played competitive tennis in high school and college. He has an interest in sports medicine, arthritis therapy, and trauma/reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle. He is also fluent in five languages (English, French, Spanish, Farsi, and Hebrew),
