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Ankle replacement

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Definition:

Ankle replacement is surgery to replace the damaged parts of the three bones that make up the ankle joint. Artificial joint parts ( prosthetics ) are implanted in place of the old bones. The artificial ankle joints come in different sizes to fit the patient.

Alternative Names:

Ankle arthroplasty - total; Total ankle arthroplasty

Description:

This procedure may be done with general anesthesia (unconscious, no pain) or a spinal anesthetic (awake, but no feeling below the waist). If you are receiving spinal anesthesia, you will also receive medicine to help you relax during the operation.

The surgeon makes a cut in the front of the ankle to expose the ankle joint. After gently pushing the tendons to the side, the surgeon disconnects the shin bone (tibia) and the smaller lower leg bone (fibula) from the main bone of the ankle (talus). The damaged surfaces of the bones are removed, and the artificial joint is attached. Screws are also commonly used to help support the artificial ankle.

After putting the tendons back into place, the surgeon closes the wound with stitches. A brace may be used to keep the ankle from moving.

Indications:

Ankle replacement surgery may be performed if the ankle joint has been severely damaged. Causes of damage include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis  
• Fracture
• Arthritis due to previous ankle surgery

References:

Su EP, Kahn B, Figgie MP. Total ankle replacement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Orthop Relat Res . 2004 Jul;(424):32-8.

Knect SI, Estin M, Callaghan JJ, et al. The Agility total ankle arthroplasty. Seven to sixteen-year follow-up. J Bone Joint Surg Am . 2004 Jun;86-A(6):1161-71.

Hebert MB, Coetzee JC. The Agility Total Ankle Replacement: A Prospective Outcome Study with Minimum Two Year Follow-Up . Washington, DC. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons' 2005 Annual Meeting. Podium Presentation. February 24, 2005. Paper No: 126.

• Review Date: 5/6/2007
• Reviewed By: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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