If you have ankle arthritis, every step might hurt. A lot of individuals find they become stiffer, swell up and have trouble walking, especially on rough terrain or if they have to stand about for a long time.

When non-surgical therapies are no longer giving significant relief, a complete ankle replacement may be a useful option to ankle fusion for certain individuals. My goal is to ease your discomfort, maintain mobility in your ankle whenever feasible, and assist you to return to your normal activities with better comfort and confidence.

What is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total ankle replacement is a procedure that removes damaged surfaces of the ankle joint and replaces them with artificial parts, allowing for smooth mobility and pain reduction.

A complete ankle replacement is designed to retain mobility in the ankle joint, while an ankle fusion permanently fuses the bones together. The use of movement may aid enhance walking and minimize stress on the surrounding joints.

Ankle replacement is not appropriate for every patient with ankle arthritis. A full examination is needed to establish the best course of action for your specific situation.

Who is a candidate for ankle replacement?

You might be a great fit if you have:

During your visit I will analyze your symptoms, check your ankle, review your imaging and explain whether ankle replacement or ankle fusion is likely to give you with the best long term result.

Considering surgery?

Before surgery we will arrange for you to obtain a specialized CT scan of your lower leg which will help produce 3D printed jigs. These jigs are custom-made for your ankle anatomy and serve as intra-operative guidelines to complete the procedure appropriately.

Specialist metal components, separated by a robust polyethylene bearing, replace the damaged joint surfaces which are carefully removed during the surgery.The implants are meant to replicate the natural motion of the ankle and provide a stable and well-aligned joint.

The treatment is done under anesthetic and every part of the surgery is meticulously designed for your specific anatomy.

Post-operative recovery

Rehabilitating and recovering after an ankle replacement takes time and effort.First your ankle will be covered with a cast, then a moonboot. We’ll connect you with physiotherapists to start the recovery process post-surgery. Weight bearing will start 6 weeks after surgery to enable bone and implants to integrate. Most patients see slow recovery over the course of many months as the edema subsides and strength is restored.

We will carefully monitor your recovery and help you through each step of your rehabilitation.

What are the dangers?

As with any major joint replacement, complete ankle replacement has significant hazards, including:

During your session I will discuss with you the dangers that are relevant to your particular circumstances.

My process with you is

Each patient and each ankle is unique. Your arthritis, bone quality, alignment, activity level and general health all need to be carefully evaluated before you can decide between ankle replacement and ankle fusion.

I will aim to understand your objectives, discuss all suitable treatment choices and offer the method that I feel is most likely to provide you the greatest long term result for your unique circumstances.

From your first consultation through to your recovery my staff and I am dedicated to provide personalized evidence-based care and supporting you throughout your treatment.

Legal disclaimer

The material on this site is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for specific medical advice. Every patient’s situation is unique and treatment advice will be individualized for you. whether you're interested in finding out whether complete ankle replacement is the right option for you, we invite you to make a consultation appointment.