Total Ankle Replacement

What is total ankle replacement?

Total ankle replacement surgery is a type of surgery that allows your foot and ankle specialist to replace all damaged parts of your ankle joint. You might have ankle damage because of an injury, older age, or a disease. The experts at Birch Tree Foot and Ankle have many years of experience performing this type of surgery to restore joint structure and your mobility.

Is a total ankle replacement right for me?

To find out if you’re a candidate for total ankle replacement at Birch Tree Foot and Ankle, your provider reviews your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms. They examine your foot and ankle and often order blood tests, X-rays, an MRI, a CT scan, or another imaging procedure.

You may need a total ankle replacement if you have tissue damage because of arthritis, age-related wear, a sports or car accident injury, or another type of severe ankle injury.

How should I prepare for my surgery?

It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions before undergoing total ankle replacement surgery. Don’t smoke, avoid taking certain medications if your specialist asks you to, and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. You may have to avoid foods and drinks the morning of your scheduled surgery.

What happens during total ankle replacement?

Before total ankle replacement, your Birch Tree Foot and Ankle specialist gives you medicine to numb the area and help you relax or fall asleep. They make an incision to remove damaged parts of your ankle joint and replace them with artificial components. 

Your specialist makes sure that the parts function properly and closes the incisions. Have a friend or family member drive you home afterward and stay with you if possible.

What should I expect after total ankle replacement surgery?

After total ankle replacement surgery, follow your surgeon’s instructions. You might have a bandage with a boot, brace, splint, or cast on your ankle to protect it during the healing process. Use crutches as directed by your ankle specialist. 

Ice the treatment area, keep the surgical site clean, take medications as directed, and avoid bearing weight on your ankle until your specialist tells you it’s okay. Attend all follow-up appointments at Birch Tree Foot and Ankle, as well as physical therapy sessions to enhance healing. Full recovery could take 6-12 months.

To learn more about total ankle replacement surgery at Birch Tree Foot and Ankle, call the office or use the online booking feature today.