Ankle Replacement Surgery, also known as Total Ankle Replacement, is a procedure used to treat Ankle Arthritis by replacing the damaged joint with an artificial implant.
Mr Edward Dawe is a Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising exclusively in foot and ankle surgery. He assesses and treats patients with Ankle Arthritis in Sussex, including those who may be suitable for Ankle Replacement Surgery.
Ankle Replacement Surgery involves removing the worn joint surfaces and replacing them with metal and plastic components designed to reduce pain and restore movement.
Unlike Ankle Fusion, Ankle Replacement aims to preserve movement in the ankle joint while improving function. Whether this is the right option depends on the pattern of arthritis, alignment of the joint and individual patient factors.
Ankle Replacement may be considered when Ankle Arthritis causes persistent pain, stiffness and difficulty with walking despite appropriate non-surgical treatment.
Non-surgical options may include supportive footwear, physiotherapy, bracing or injections. Surgical options may include Ankle Fusion or Ankle Replacement. The most appropriate treatment depends on the severity of arthritis, the shape and alignment of the joint, bone quality and overall patient factors.
Ankle Replacement Surgery is carefully planned using imaging such as weight-bearing X-rays and CT scans to assess the joint, alignment and bone structure.
In selected cases, patient-specific instrumentation may be used to help guide the procedure and improve accuracy. Careful planning is an important part of achieving the best possible implant position and overall result.
Recovery takes place over several months. After surgery, the ankle is protected while early healing takes place, weight-bearing is introduced gradually, and physiotherapy is used to restore movement and strength.
Swelling and stiffness can continue to improve over time. More detailed information about recovery can be found on the Recovery page.
Suitability depends on the severity of arthritis, bone quality, alignment, stability of the ankle and overall health. Not every patient with Ankle Arthritis is suitable for replacement, and in some cases Ankle Fusion may be the better option.
A specialist assessment is needed to determine whether Ankle Replacement is appropriate and to discuss the likely benefits, risks and alternatives.
Modern Ankle Replacements are designed to last many years, although longevity varies depending on patient factors, implant factors and activity levels.
Both procedures can be effective. Ankle Replacement aims to preserve movement, while Ankle Fusion removes movement at the joint but can provide reliable pain relief. The most appropriate option depends on the individual patient.
Suitability depends on the severity of arthritis, bone quality, alignment, stability of the ankle and overall health. A specialist assessment is required.
The main surgical alternative is Ankle Fusion. Non-surgical treatment may also still be appropriate in some patients depending on symptoms and imaging findings.
Planning usually involves imaging such as weight-bearing X-rays and CT scans to assess the joint, alignment and bone structure. In selected cases, patient-specific instrumentation may be used.
Recovery takes place over several months. The ankle is protected initially, weight-bearing is introduced gradually, and physiotherapy is used to help restore movement and strength.
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Goring Hall and
Nuffield Haywards Heath Private secretary: Nicole Murray Tel: 07856 521034 [email protected] |
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