An artificial implant is used to replace the damaged ankle joint during ankle replacement surgery.
Ankle surgery is a surgical procedure performed to repair or reconstruct the bones, ligaments, or tendons in the ankle joint.
Whether it's an injury, degenerative disease or structural problem, the physicians and surgeons at INTEGRIS Health have the specialized training and expertise needed to accurately diagnose and effectively treat any condition of the lower extremities.
Ankle surgery is typically only recommended when other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy and medications, have not been effective in relieving symptoms and improving function.
Here are some common symptoms that may indicate the need for ankle replacement surgery:
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they are not improving with other forms of treatment, it is important to speak with your doctor. They will be able to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include ankle replacement surgery.
An orthopedic surgeon can diagnose the need for ankle replacement surgery through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and possibly other diagnostic tests.
During the physical examination, the surgeon will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and will also perform a thorough examination of your ankle. This may include testing your range of motion, checking for swelling and tenderness, and assessing your ability to bear weight on the affected ankle.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, can provide detailed images of the bones and soft tissues in the ankle, allowing the surgeon to see any abnormalities or damage.
Other diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan or bone scan, may also be ordered to help the surgeon get a better understanding of the condition of the ankle joint.
Based on the results of these tests and the surgeon's examination, they will be able to determine whether ankle replacement surgery is necessary and, if so, what type of implant and surgical approach will be best.
The treatment for ankle replacement surgery typically involves the following steps:
Pre-operative preparation: Before the surgery, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss the details of the procedure, including the type of implant that will be used and the expected recovery time. You will also be given instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, such as fasting for a certain period of time before the procedure and arranging for someone to drive you home afterwards.
Anesthesia: Ankle replacement surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
The surgery: The specific details of the surgery will depend on the type of implant being used and the condition of your ankle. In general, the surgeon will make an incision in the skin over the ankle joint, remove any damaged bone and cartilage, and then place the artificial implant into the joint. The implant is typically held in place with screws or other fixation devices.
Recovery: After the surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room to be monitored until the effects of the anesthesia have worn off. You will likely be given pain medication to help manage any discomfort, and you will be advised to keep weight off the affected ankle as it heals. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore strength and mobility to the joint.
Overall, the recovery time for ankle replacement surgery can vary, but most people are able to return to normal activities within a few months of the procedure.
