Ankle Replacement Surgery

Total ankle replacement, also called ankle replacement surgery or total ankle arthroplasty, replaces damaged parts of the ankle joint with artificial components. It is most often used to treat advanced ankle arthritis when nonsurgical treatments no longer provide enough relief.

What Is total ankle replacement?

The ankle joint is where the shin bone (tibia) meets the talus, a bone in the foot. Healthy cartilage allows these bones to move smoothly against each other. When that cartilage wears away, the bones can rub together causing painful symptoms.

During total ankle replacement surgery, damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with implants. The goal is to reduce pain while maintaining as much natural ankle movement as possible.

Who Is a candidate for ankle replacement?

Your orthopedic foot and ankle specialist may recommend total ankle replacement if you have severe ankle arthritis that has not improved with more conservative treatments.

Ankle replacement may be considered for patients experiencing:

• Chronic or severe ankle pain
• Ankle stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Pain that limits work, exercise, or daily activities
• Advanced osteoarthritis or post-traumatic arthritis
• Symptoms that have not improved with medications, injections, bracing, or physical therapy

Not everyone with ankle arthritis needs surgery. Your provider will evaluate your symptoms, activity level, overall health, ankle alignment, and the condition of the surrounding bones and joints before recommending treatment.

Total ankle replacement vs. ankle fusion

Ankle fusion has traditionally been a common surgical treatment for severe ankle arthritis. During a fusion, the bones of the ankle are joined together, eliminating movement at the arthritic joint.

Total ankle replacement offers another option. Instead of eliminating motion, an ankle replacement is designed to preserve movement in the ankle while relieving arthritis pain. Maintaining ankle motion may also reduce stress on neighboring joints in the foot.

The best procedure depends on your age, health, activity level, anatomy, and the extent of your ankle damage. An orthopedic foot and ankle specialist can help determine whether ankle replacement or fusion is the better choice for you.

You don't have to accept chronic ankle pain as part of everyday life. If arthritis or a previous ankle injury is limiting your mobility, total ankle replacement may be an option. One of our foot and ankle orthopedists (podiatrists) can help assess your condition. Schedule today to get started with a treatment plan.