Total Ankle Replacement
Table of Contents
Total Ankle Replacement - Introduction
The ankle joint is critical for normal walking, and fortunately for most healthy people, the ankle has a natural resilience to forming arthritis. However, when injuries to the ankle occur, arthritis often follows.
For anyone dealing with end-stage ankle arthritis (marked by motion limitations or worn joint surfaces) treatment options are few. In this context, ankle joint replacement surgery presents itself as a viable option, promising restoration of function and relief from debilitating pain.
The History of Total Ankle Replacement
Ankle replacement surgery dates back to the 1970s, when a pioneering physician attempted to replace the ankle with an inverted total hip replacement. In the years that followed, efforts often failed due to a lack of a dependable surgical solution. Poor implant attachment methods, imprecise placement, and misalignment with natural joint mechanics made early attempts unsuccessful.
The surgical landscape evolved with the advent of second-generation implants in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Over the last few decades, refinements in instrumentation, materials, and engineering have propelled ankle replacement into the realm of a viable alternative to joint fusion for a subset of patients.
Successful Outcomes of Ankle Replacement Surgery
Today, successful surgical outcomes are very good and offer a level of predictability and functionality surpassing that of ankle fusion. Unlike fusion, which curtails the ankle’s up-and-down motion, total ankle replacement preserves joint mobility, thereby enhancing overall function.
The motion of the ankle implant also serves a protective role for neighboring foot joints, mitigating the risk of arthritis development due to the amplified stress accompanying ankle fusion. Patients with ankle fusion are almost always confronted with arthritis in adjacent foot joints within a decade post-surgery.
Advancements since 2005
Ankle Replacement in the San Francisco Bay Area and Beyond
Advantages of Total Ankle Replacement
Preservation of ankle joint motion, a pivotal facet for everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and engaging in recreational activities. Ideal candidates for ankle replacement are individuals over 50 years old who maintain a healthy weight and are not engaged in rigorous physical activities.
Post-surgery, patients can resume many activities like walking and hiking to swimming and biking. Conversely, activities such as running, basketball, tennis, and heavy lifting should be avoided.
Also, individuals with advanced diabetes, compromised bone quality, or circulatory issues may not be suitable candidates for ankle replacement.
Bay Area Foot Care - Ankle Replacement Specialists
- Dr. Schuberth’s work has drawn world-renown and patients seek out his expertise as an absolute authority in Total Ankle Replacement and other advanced Foot and Ankle Treatments.
- His talent as a clinician and surgeon is legendary and his meticulous attention to detail sets an example for all who have had the privilege to work with him.
- Dr. Weinraub is a renowned reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgeon, specializing in Ankle Joint Replacement, Trauma, Arthroscopy and Adult ankle & foot deformities.
- Past President American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons.
- CEO of Bones Pro Bono, Vietnam Project.
Conclusion
According to Dr. Jack Schuberth of Bay Area Foot Care, “these procedures are performed in the hospital on an outpatient basis. I allow full weight bearing in most cases within 2 weeks after surgery.”
If you are dealing with ankle discomfort or pain, you should seek the guidance of a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Reach out to us today at Bay Area Foot Care to restore mobility to your ankle and enhance your quality of life.
