A total ankle replacement is a type of joint replacement surgery. Replacing the ankle joint with an artificial one to decrease pain and increase motion. Dr. Journot of Greiner Orthopedics is one of the few Podiatrist trained in the Kansas City area to do total ankle replacements.
The total ankle replacements have advanced in the past 10-15 years to be like the knee and hip replacements in longevity of the artificial joint.
Dr. Journot uses the Wright Medical Infinity total ankle system and Prophecy system. What the prophecy system does is a CT scan is taken of the entire lower leg, and this computer program than takes measurements and provides the best guide system to get you the best artificial joint for your ankle.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Ankle Pain
Total Ankle Replacement
Video on the total ankle system Dr. Journot uses.
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.