Ankle Replacement

What is ankle replacement?

Ankle replacement with Dr. Stautberg is a surgery in which he replaces all or part of your ankle joint with artificial components. The ankle joint connects your lower leg bone to your foot and consists of bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and cartilage. The procedure can enhance the strength and function of worn down or injured joints.

What are the benefits of ankle replacement?

If you have a damaged or painful ankle joint, ankle replacement reduces pain and makes it easier for you to move around, stay active, and maintain the best quality of life possible. It also strengthens the joint, improves its structure, and helps prevent further joint problems.

Is ankle replacement right for me?

Dr. Stautberg determines if you’re a candidate for ankle replacement after examining the affected joint, reviewing your medical history and symptoms, and ordering diagnostic tests — such as blood tests, X-rays, a CT, an ultrasound, or another imaging procedure. 

He also discusses your lifestyle habits, treatment preferences, and desired outcome. You might be a candidate for ankle replacement if you struggle with a severe injury, ongoing pain, age-related wear-and-tear, arthritis, or another debilitating medical problem.

Other times, less invasive treatments are used. For example, sometimes you simply need physical therapy, injections, rest, bracing, home remedies, or oral medicines.

Not all patients are good candidates for ankle replacement surgery, and other surgical options, including ankle arthrodesis, can be discussed. 

What happens during ankle replacement surgery?

Follow Dr. Stautberg’s instructions before ankle replacement. Don’t smoke, stop taking certain medicines if asked to, and arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.

Before the procedure, you receive anesthesia to numb the treatment area and help you relax. Dr. Stautberg makes an incision, removes damaged tissues, and replaces all or some of the affected joints with synthetic parts. Dr. Stautberg uses custom 3D printed guides during the ankle replacement surgery. These are based on the patient’s preoperative CT scan. 

Afterward, he closes the incisions and reviews the post-care instructions with you. It’s important to rest the affected joint while it heals, eat nutritious foods, and take medicines as directed. 

Keep the treatment area clean and wear a splint during the healing process. You will be on crutches or a knee scooter for a while. Attend physical therapy sessions and follow-up visits with Dr. Stautberg to optimize your recovery.

To find out if you’re a candidate for ankle replacement surgery, schedule an appointment with Eugene Stautberg, MD, by phone or request one online today.