Total Ankle Replacement

The fibula, tibia, and talus bones make up the tibiotalar (ankle) joint. The talus, which is between the leg and foot bones, moves with the fibula (smaller bone of the lower leg) and tibia (shinbone).

Total ankle replacement surgery is suggested when serious injury or arthritis has affected the mobility of the tibiotalar joint to the point that it interferes with day-to-day activities. This can often result in pain, stiffness, and instability. If conservative methods prove ineffective in providing relief and restoring function, your surgeon may suggest a total ankle replacement.

In a total ankle replacement, your surgeon will replace the damaged parts of the joint with synthetic implants and/or surfaces. The biggest advantage of this procedure is that it preserves normal motion of your ankle. When compared with ankle fusion, replacement has a shorter recovery, higher patient satisfaction, and lower rates of post-surgery complications like infection.

As of January 1^st of 2025, total ankle replacement is now allowable as an outpatient procedure in a surgery center, if your surgeon deems that an appropriate option. If you need some additional monitoring and pain control assistance, your surgeon may suggest that the procedure be done at a hospital with one night stay for observation. Regardless of location, the surgery will typically be concluded in three hours max, including prep, anesthesia, and procedure time.

Many people find that their discomfort begins to recede a few days after surgery, and often quickly find themselves in significantly less pain than they were prior to the ankle replacement. Initially, you can expect to be in a splint and require the use of crutches. It is essential for the ankle to not bear any weight for typically at least two weeks post-surgery, as this can disturb the incision. After the splint is removed, you will likely graduate to a boot or cast. Physical therapy can often begin around two weeks after surgery, depending on your healing and your surgeon’s recommendation. It is important to keep all follow up appointments after your ankle replacement, and to carefully monitor your incision for any sign of infection.

While every patient is different, generally most patients are well on their way to full recovery six months after the surgery. By twelve months, you can expect to feel as good as new. To maintain your replacement long-term, we suggest wearing appropriately supportive footwear and incorporating regular exercise into your day. Maintaining the implant is no different than taking care of the rest of your body – movement is good, but stagnation can result in issues.

At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our surgeons work closely with our in-house physical therapists and the rest of your care team to monitor your recovery. Whether it’s a question that needs to be answered or a concern to be addressed, we’re with you every step of the way. If you’re ready to think about resolving ankle pain, please reach out to us at 855.386.7846 to make an appointment with one of our specialists!