Total Ankle Replacement

Are ankle fusion and total ankle replacement different? 

Ankle replacement is a procedure to remove and replace your ankle joint. Prosthetics, made of metal, plastic, and other durable materials, replace the removed parts of the ankle. This allows for smooth joint movement and eliminates pain.

Ankle fusion is a procedure to connect two or more bones within the ankle. Although ankle fusion stops pain, it also stops movement in that area. So, it’s a far more restrictive surgery than ankle replacement. 

After a total ankle replacement, most people resume their normal lifestyle without pain or restrictions. 

What is the total ankle replacement process?

Before surgery, you’ll receive a nerve block, which eliminates feeling in the ankle area. 

The total ankle replacement process starts by creating a small incision and removing the damaged bone and cartilage in the joint. 

Next, the bones are resurfaced (prepared to hold the replacement joint). If the calf muscle or Achilles tendon is short or too tight, the tissue may be lengthened to better accommodate the new implants and prevent joint strain.

After the new artificial joint is in place, range-of-motion and alignment testing occurs before closing the incision. These steps ensure that your new ankle works just as well as your old one once did.

Prestige Medical Group uses the most trusted and evidence-based surgical protocols to ensure your total ankle replacement goes smoothly. 

Is total ankle replacement right for me?

Total ankle replacement is a last resort for chronic pain and ankle function issues because it’s a major surgery. Prestige Medical Care recommends trying nonsurgical methods first, for example:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Durable medical equipment (DME) like custom orthotics
• Corticosteroid injections 
• Physical therapy 

But, if your ankle pain doesn’t improve enough to allow you to live a normal life, it could be time to consider total ankle replacement surgery. Most people who have total ankle replacement surgery have end-stage osteoarthritis, and their pain has become unbearable and caused them to miss out on too much of their life.  

If you have ankle pain, heel pain, or chronic foot pain that doesn’t improve after trying conservative care, surgery such as a total ankle replacement could be a good option for you. To learn more about the process, call Prestige Medical Care or book your appointment online today.