Total Ankle Replacement

A total ankle replacement is a procedure in which damaged portions of the bone and cartilage in the ankle joint are removed and replaced with prosthetic implants. This type of procedure is commonly used to treat patients who have chronic or severe pain and swelling in their ankle joint that can’t be treated with more conservative treatments. For many people, these ankle problems are caused by arthritis or an injury.

Total ankle replacement is an open procedure, much like a total knee replacement. It is performed through small incisions in the foot and ankle area. Using special instruments and imaging systems, your surgeon can operate on the damaged area while protecting the surrounding tissues. Although total ankle replacement is often an outpatient surgery, it does require sedation and regional-specific anesthesia.

Following a total ankle replacement, you will either be discharged the same day or may need to stay one or more nights in the hospital or surgical facility. Because it’s important that you begin moving quickly, your caregivers will help you plan how to start building your mobility.

When you return home, your doctor will provide you with instructions on caring for your ankle. To help minimize swelling, you’ll have to keep your ankle elevated for several days after surgery and will have to keep weight off your ankle for roughly 10 – 12 weeks. It takes about 3 to 6 months for patients to return to normal activity levels.