Each patient is unique and can experience ankle pain for different reasons. It is very important to talk to us about your ankle pain so you are able to understand the treatment options available to you. One common cause for ankle pain is ankle arthritis, a degenerative condition that involves the breakdown of cartilage and bones in the ankle joint. Pain from ankle arthritis and degeneration can be constant, it can come and go and it can also cause deformity to the ankle which can also cause deformity to the foot. Pain usually occurs with movement of the ankle joint or after a period of rest and the joint feels stiff. If conservative treatment such as injections, physical therapy or bracing has not helped you then total ankle replacement may give you the relief from your arthritis pain.

Total ankle replacement involves removing arthritic bone and damaged cartilage in the ankle joint, and replacing them with an implant. The ankle joint is described as a modified hinge joint. Take a look at how the end of the leg bone (tibia or shin bone) is replaced with a metal tray and the ankle bone (talus) is also replaced with a metal tray. The ankle joint is reconstructed, usually using a durable plastic (polyethylene) that is placed between the 2 metal trays. The tibial and talar components work together to form the artifical ankle implant.

Without prophecy system

With prophecy system – Dr. Journot uses this most frequently.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Ankle Replacements
Ankle joint replacement is intended for use in individuals with joint disease resulting from degenerative and rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, fracture or functional deformity of the ankle.

Joint replacement surgery is not appropriate for patients with certain types of infections, any mental or neuromuscular disorder which would create an unacceptable risk of prosthesis instability, prosthesis fixation failure or complications in postoperative care, compromised bone stock, skeletal immaturity, severe instability of the joint, or excessive body weight.

Like any surgery, joint replacement surgery has serious risks which include, but are not limited to, pain, bone fracture, change in the treated leg length, joint stiffness, ankle joint fusion, amputation, peripheral neuropathies (nerve damage), circulatory compromise (including deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the legs)), genitourinary disorders (including kidney failure), vascular disorders (including thrombus (blood clots), blood loss, or changes in blood pressure or heart rhythm), bronchopulmonary disorders (including emboli, stroke or pneumonia), heart attack, and death.

Implant related risks which may lead to a revision of the implant include dislocation, loosening, fracture, nerve damage, heterotopic bone formation (abnormal bone growth in tissue), wear of the implant, metal sensitivity, soft tissue imbalance, osteolysis (localized progressive bone loss), audible sounds during motion, and reaction to particle debris.

The information presented is for educational purposes only. Speak to your doctor to decide if joint replacement surgery is appropriate for you. Individual results vary and not all patients will return to the same activity level. The lifetime of any joint replacement is limited and depends on several factors like patient weight and activity level. Your doctor will counsel you about strategies to potentially prolong the lifetime of the device, including avoiding high-impact activities, such as running, as well as maintaining a healthy weight. It is important to closely follow your physician’s instructions regarding post-surgery activity, treatment, and follow-up care. Ask your doctor if a joint replacement is right for you.