Total Ankle Replacement

Awarding-Winning Orthopedic Services in Orange County

When is Total Ankle Replacement Considered?

Total ankle replacement surgery (also called ankle arthroscopy) is the replacement of a worn out or damaged ankle joint with an artificial implant. Ankle Arthritis, caused by a post-traumatic fracture, sprain or other injury, is one of the most common conditions that can result in an ankle replacement. Ankle arthritis occurs when the cartilage (padding) in the ankle joint wears out, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle. For patients experiencing severe cases of ankle arthritis, ankle replacement surgery can help to alleviate the pain and swelling in the ankle joint by replacing the damaged joint with an artificial implant.

Unlike ankle fusion (arthrodesis), which makes the ankle joint permanently fixed, the goal of total ankle replacement surgery is to maintain ankle motion as well as avoid developing arthritis in the adjacent foot joints. However, not all patients are candidates for an ankle replacement. To learn more about ankle arthritis and ankle replacements, make an appointment to speak with one of the Hoag Orthopedic Institute’s dedicated ankle surgeons.

What Can I Expect During Surgery?

There have been many advancements with the technology in ankle replacements. The current generation of ankle replacements include usage of preoperative CT scans to template out the surgical plan and 3-D printing jigs to use during surgery which decrease surgical time and improve reproducibility of the procedure.

Typically, the procedure takes place under general anesthesia. Your ankle surgeon will make an incision in your ankle to access the affected joint. Next, your surgeon will remove the damaged parts of your shinbone (tibia) and your talus (the top of a bone of your foot). Your surgeon will then attach the artificial implant to the remaining bone surfaces on your foot.

The recovery usually includes 1-2 nights in the hospital. Patients are usually non-weight bearing in a splint or cast for approximately 4 weeks, followed by an additional 4 weeks weight bearing in a boot. Recovery includes many months of physical therapy to work on balance, strength, motion and gait.

Find an Ankle Surgeon or Podiatrist

Treating severe ankle arthritis with total ankle replacement surgery can help to alleviate pain and swelling and get you back on your feet doing what you love. At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our top ankle doctors and podiatrists prioritize the health and unique goals of patients and are dedicated to providing sound orthopedic care and comprehensive patient-focused services in state-of-the-art facilities.

To learn more about total ankle replacement surgery, call (949) 705-6493 or find an ankle surgeon or podiatrist using our online physician directory.

Find an Ankle Surgeon