About Total Ankle Replacement Surgery
During total ankle replacement surgery, your orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged portions of the bones and cartilage that make up your ankle joint and replaces them with artificial components made of metal and medical-grade plastic. Your surgeon carefully positions and aligns the implant to help restore the mechanics of your ankle while preserving as much natural movement as possible.
Total ankle replacement surgery may be an option when pain persists despite non-surgical or fusion treatments. Benefits of ankle replacement include:
- Preserved range of motion in the ankle joint
- Significant pain relief
- Successful alternative to fusion for appropriate candidates
Best in Texas for Orthopedic Care
Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked Best in Texas by U.S. News & World Report for Orthopedics. U.S. News & World Report has also named Houston Methodist Hospital one of the nation's best as a nationally ranked Honor Roll hospital.
What Conditions Does Total Ankle Replacement Surgery Treat?
Total ankle replacement primarily treats severe ankle arthritis, including:
- Post-traumatic ankle arthritis: Arthritis that develops following a previous ankle injury. This is the most common cause of ankle arthritis severe enough to require surgery.
- Primary ankle osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the ankle joint that develops without a specific underlying injury or disease.
- Inflammatory arthritis: Includes rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory or autoimmune conditions that can damage the ankle joint.
Who Is a Candidate for Total Ankle Replacement Surgery?
Before considering surgery, patients with ankle arthritis typically try to alleviate their pain through non-surgical treatments such as activity modification, pain medication, therapeutic injections or physical therapy. When these approaches no longer provide adequate relief, your orthopedic specialist may discuss surgical options, including ankle fusion or total ankle replacement.
At Houston Methodist, our orthopedic specialists carefully evaluate your imaging alongside your symptoms, overall health history, activity level and long-term goals to determine if total ankle replacement surgery is right for you. You may be a candidate if you:
- Are living with severe or advanced ankle arthritis
- Avoid high-impact sports or activities
- Continue to experience pain or limited mobility despite non-surgical treatment
- Do not have significant ankle deformity or soft tissue damage
- Do not have a prior history of infection in the ankle
- Want pain relief while preserving your current ankle mobility
Preparing for Total Ankle Replacement Surgery
Your doctor will review your diagnosis, discuss your treatment options and explain what to expect before, during and after total ankle replacement surgery. Before recommending surgery, an orthopedic specialist will perform a thorough evaluation that may include:
- A detailed medical history
- A physical examination
- X-rays, MRI or CT imaging
Recovery After Total Ankle Replacement Surgery
Total ankle arthroplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home the same day.
Physical therapy plays an important role in restoring strength, flexibility and normal movement while helping you return to your daily activities safely. Your orthopedic surgeon will provide a personalized recovery plan, including guidance on weight-bearing, activity progression and return to work, exercise and low-intensity sports.