Ankle Replacement Surgery
Ankle replacement surgery is a procedure performed to replace an injured, a damaged or a diseased ankle joint with a prosthetic (an artificial joint). It can be used to improve mobility, and to treat the pain & disability caused by severe ankle arthritis or severe ankle injuries or other such conditions. The goal of ankle replacement surgery is to improve the function & alignment of the ankle joint, treat chronic ankle instability, reduce pain, and restore range of motion in case a person has had multiple ankle fractures. It is an option when more conservative treatments such as physical therapy, braces, or medications have failed to provide relief from arthritis pain, joint instability, or loss of motion. It is also an option for patients with severe ankle joint damage caused by traumatic injuries.
Need for an Ankle Replacement Surgery
A person may need ankle replacement surgery if they experience pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty with activities due to a damaged or diseased ankle joint. Symptoms of a damaged or diseased ankle joint include difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities. Patients may benefit from ankle replacement surgery if they have severe pain when walking, standing, or engaging in physical activity, and if the pain is not responding to other treatments. Additionally, those with a deformity of the ankle joint, loss of motion in the ankle, or recurrent ankle dislocations may be candidates for the procedure. Ankle replacement surgery is an option when other treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, and bracing, have failed to reduce pain and improve mobility. It is often used to treat advanced stages of arthritis and joint damage, or when a person has had multiple ankle fractures.
Any Risks Associated with the Ankle Replacement Surgery
The complications & risks associated with ankle replacement surgery include infection, bleeding, stiffness, decreased range of motion, nerve damage, numbness, fracture or loosening of the prosthetic joint, nerve injury, and implant wear. As with any surgery, there is also a risk of blood clots and allergic reaction to anesthesia. Other risks include nerve and blood vessel damage, bone and joint instability, and the need for further surgery. It is important to talk to a doctor about the potential risks and how to manage them.
How to Get Ready for the Ankle Replacement Surgery?
It is important for patients to prepare for ankle replacement surgery by having a comprehensive evaluation with their surgeon and discussing expectations and potential risks. It is also important to follow all preoperative instructions to reduce the risk of complications. Your doctor will probably order tests before surgery, such as X-rays, CT scans, or an MRI. Before the surgery, it is also important to prepare mentally and physically. The doctor may recommend exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion in the ankle. It is also important to discuss any medications that may need to be adjusted prior to the surgery, such as blood thinners.
What Happens during an Ankle Replacement Surgery?
During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the damaged ankle bone and cartilage, and will insert the new prosthetic joint into the ankle. The joint is secured and the surrounding soft tissue is repaired. Depending on the extent of the surgery, the procedure can last anywhere from two to three hours.
What Happens after the Ankle Replacement Surgery?
After the procedure, you will need to keep your foot elevated and use crutches or other assistive devices while you recover. Doctors will also prescribe physical therapy to help regain muscle strength and flexibility. Patients will be required to wear a non-weight bearing cast or an external fixator for up to six weeks to allow the new joint to heal properly. They will also be required to take antibiotics and will be given pain medications.
Come to 1Health Center for Ankle Replacement Surgery
Come to 1Health Medical Center if you are contemplating upon the ankle replacement surgery to find out whether you are the right candidate for it, so as to get the most ideal advice and right medical treatment further with your specific condition.