Ankle Replacement

It is a relatively new, yet highly effective joint replacement procedure, that uses artificial implants to replace damaged or diseased ankle joints. The procedure is performed under the influence of general or spinal anaesthesia. The surgery can help to relieve pain and enhance ankle mobility. There are several different types of ankle replacement, differentiated based on the joint components that have been replaced.

What is ankle replacement?
Ankle replacement, sometimes referred to as ankle arthroplasty is an option for those who have been suffering from ankle pain and discomfort for a very long time. During the surgery, the doctors will replace the damaged or dysfunctional ankle joints and bones with prosthetic components, while preserving the range of motion. This allows the patients to perform normal day-to-day activities without any pain or discomfort.

Who is recommended to go for ankle replacement??
Ankle replacement surgery is recommended for people experiencing chronic pain and swelling, that is not responding to medication, therapy or any other non-invasive treatment modality. This may be due to any of the following:
- Age-related wear and tear
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post Traumatic Arthritis

What happens before the procedure?
- Doctors will perform certain tests and assessments to evaluate the extent of damage and curate a proper surgical plan to be followed
- This is followed by a thorough assessment of your past medical records to make sure you do not have any existing medical condition that can interfere with the course of the orthopaedics treatment.
- You will be informed about the medical procedure and the various benefits and risks involved
- You may be required to fast, starting from 8 hours prior to the surgery
- You will need to make arrangements for performing normal day-to-day chores for some days

What happens during the procedure?
- You will be given general/ spinal anaesthesia to keep you sedated throughout the procedure
- An intravenous line will be started to administer nutritional fluids and medication to your arm
- You will be connected to a monitor that will simultaneously record your vitals i.e. heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, etc
- Once you are under the influence of anaesthesia, the surgical site will be cleaned and doctors will carefully make an incision to access the affected joint components.
- Doctors will carefully replace the damaged joint components with the prosthetic parts
- The incision is then closed and you will be shifted to the recovery room

What to expect after the procedure?
- After the procedure, you can experience mild pain and discomfort which can be taken care with the help of prescribed pain medication
- Rigorous physical activities should be avoided and you should refrain from putting too much strain on the affected foot
- You will need to go for physiotherapy for a quick recovery
- You will also have to go for regular check-ups to help your doctors keep a track of your progress