Ankle replacement is an alternative to ankle fusion in patients who have end stage ankle arthritis. It is not as durable as ankle fusion and thus is best for older patients. It can be a good option for the older patient as it allows earlier weight bearing than fusion surgery.
Symptoms and signs
Pain within the ankle (particularly pain disturbing sleep), reduced walking distance (less than 1km) and swelling are common presentations of ankle arthritis. A history of prior injury or ankle fracture is common in patients who develop ankle arthritis.
Surgery
An incision is made over the front of the ankle to access the ankle joint. Custom jigs can be used to carefully resect the remaining joint to allow space for implantation of the replacement. The replacement consists of two metal components (tibia and talus) and an ultra hard wearing plastic bearing that articulates between the metal. The joint is then closed in layers over the replacement.
After your surgery
- You will be in plaster for the first 2 weeks, then a moon boot until the 6 -week mark. Partial weight bearing can range of motion exercise can commence from week 2.
- The usual length of stay in hospital is 1 – nights.
- You will be seen in the rooms 10 – 14 days post surgery for suture removal.
Risks of ankle replacement surgery
- Infection
- Nerve, blood vessel injury
- Implant failure requiring revision replacement or fusion
- Blood clots – DVT / PE
- Ongoing pain
