Total Ankle Replacement (Ankle Arthroplasty)

Total ankle replacement is an advanced surgical procedure where damaged bone and cartilage in the ankle joint are replaced with prosthetic components to relieve chronic pain and restore natural motion.

Symptoms

• Deep, persistent ankle pain during movement or rest
• Joint stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Swelling and difficulty bearing weight

Causes

• End-stage ankle osteoarthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis following severe fractures or sprains
• Rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory joint diseases

Risk Factors

• Previous severe ankle injuries or chronic instability
• Advanced age or joint wear
• History of joint infections or autoimmune conditions

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive physical examination of joint stability and alignment
• Weight-bearing X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to evaluate cartilage loss

Treatment

• Non-Surgical: Physical therapy, custom bracing, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted injections.
• Surgical: Total ankle replacement to remove damaged joint surfaces and replace them with high-grade implants, eliminating friction while preserving movement.