Total Ankle Replacement Specialist

What is a total ankle replacement?

The ankle joint is composed of the lower leg bones and the first bone in the foot. Over time, your ankle joint has the potential to lose protective cartilage due to factors such as injury, infection, and wear-and-tear. 

Total ankle replacement, also known as ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure for individuals who have exhausted all other treatment options.

During the procedure, your surgeon removes the damaged parts of your ankle and replaces them with a metallic prosthesis. The surgery has been proven to relieve pain and restore motion within the affected ankle joint.

How do I prepare myself before a total ankle replacement?

Before performing a total ankle replacement, the team ensures that you fully understand the procedure, as well as its benefits and risks. They then check that your primary care physician has evaluated and deemed you fit for surgery.

Prior to surgery, it is important to notify your surgeon if you:

• Have any current infections
• Are a smoker
• Have allergies to medications
• Are currently taking any medications
• Have pre-existing conditions

Additionally, you should plan to be at home for an extended period after surgery. During this time, you won’t be able to participate in normal activities. 

How do I recover from a total ankle replacement?

After a total ankle replacement, you typically remain in the hospital for two to three days, or until the pain is controlled and you can walk safely with crutches or a walker.

After six weeks, your podiatrist orders X-rays to determine whether to advance weight-bearing or to continue using the assistive devices. Overall, the length of the recovery period varies from patient to patient. 

Although rare, it is important to call the Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado if you experience any of the following symptoms during your recovery:

• New swelling
• Tingling or numbness in your toes
• Discolored drainage
• Bad smelling drainage
• Fever or chills

Although total ankle replacements are a relatively new procedure, they have been proven to be successful and last an average of 10-15 years.

To learn more about total ankle replacements and if the procedure is the right choice for you, call the Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado or use the convenient online booking tool today.