Total Ankle Replacement

Arizona Foot & Ankle Center is proud to offer total ankle replacement surgery, a state-of-the-art solution for individuals suffering from end-stage ankle arthritis.

What is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total ankle replacement surgery is an advanced treatment designed to address the severe pain and limited motion of the foot caused by end-stage ankle arthritis. This condition results from the complete deterioration of the cartilage in the ankle joint, which limits a person's daily activities.

The procedure involves:

• Using precise instrumentation to remove arthritic bone from the affected joint.
• Replacing the damaged joint with metallic components and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene.
• Restoring joint motion and improving overall functionality.

Who is a Candidate for Total Ankle Replacement?

Patients with end-stage ankle arthritis are ideal candidates for this procedure. Common causes of this condition include:

• Long-standing ankle instability.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Previous ankle fractures.

While there are no absolute contraindications, careful patient selection is critical to ensure optimal outcomes. For personalized evaluation and guidance, contact our office today.

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery from total ankle replacement surgery is structured to promote healing and restore mobility efficiently:

1. Immediate Post-Surgery:
   • The procedure can be performed in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
   • Some patients return home the same day, while others may stay in the hospital for 1–2 days.
2. Non-Weight Bearing Phase:
   • Patients remain non-weight bearing for 2–4 weeks.
   • The ankle is immobilized in a cast to reduce swelling and protect the surgical site.
3. Transition to Weight Bearing:
   • Once the incision heals, patients can begin protected weight bearing in a walking boot.
   • This occurs significantly earlier compared to ankle fusion surgery, where non-weight bearing may last up to 12 weeks.
4. Full Recovery:
   • Transition to regular footwear typically occurs between 8–12 weeks post-surgery.
   • Pain relief is often immediate, with substantial improvement noticeable at the first post-operative visit.

Potential Risks of the Procedure

As with any surgical intervention, total ankle replacement carries some risks. These include:

• Surgical Site Infection and Wound Healing: We implement rigorous precautions during surgery and recovery to minimize these risks.
• Component Wear or Misalignment: Over time, the artificial joint components may wear out or shift. Patients are closely monitored to address any issues promptly.

Case Presentation: Successful Total Ankle Replacement

Patient Profile: A 71-year-old male with bilateral end-stage ankle arthritis.

History: The patient experienced chronic ankle sprains, leading to progressive joint deterioration.

Treatment:

• The patient underwent total ankle replacement for both ankles, with procedures performed six months apart.
• Pre-operative X-rays revealed complete cartilage loss and joint space narrowing. Post-operative X-rays confirmed successful joint replacement.

Outcome: The patient reported significant pain reduction and restored mobility, describing the results as life-changing.