Ankle Replacement

Whether you're walking, running dancing or playing football, your ankles support the majority of your full body weight. That’s a lot of pressure to put on a small joint, which is why ankles are quite vulnerable to injury. Medical conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may also damage ankle joints. All of these issues can lead to ankle pain and decreased function.

If you suffer from ankle pain, you're in good hands at Texas Orthopedic Hospital. Our team of affiliated orthopedic surgeons are highly skilled at treating ankle conditions and injuries. Most of those surgeons are members of the Fondren Orthopedic Group, the largest and most comprehensive association of private orthopedic surgeons in the Houston area and one of the largest orthopedic groups in the nation.

Ankle Joint Replacement Surgery

Our affiliated surgeons are ready to help patients find relief and maintain or regain motion. One of the most common procedures for these ankle conditions is total ankle joint replacement, known as total ankle arthroplasty.

Total Ankle Arthroplasty

While some patients may benefit from an ankle fusion surgery, most surgeons recommend replacing the total ankle joint, a procedure known as total ankle arthroplasty. During the procedure, metal or plastic materials are used to create a new ankle joint. On patients who also have a tight muscle or Achilles tendon, the surgeon may also perform a lengthening procedure, to increase the patient's range of motion.

Total ankle arthroplasty is performed on an inpatient basis under general anesthesia and typically requires a one- to two-night hospital stay. Immediately following the procedure, the patient must keep the ankle elevated to control swelling and facilitate healing. For approximately six weeks following the procedure, the patient will wear a splint or boot and must limit weight on the ankle, using a crutch or walker for assistance. After about six weeks, if the ankle is healing well, the patient may begin rehabilitation exercises. It can take up to a year to fully recover, and patients are asked to avoid high-impact activities, which can damage the new ankle.

Ankle Replacement Specialists

Texas Orthopedic Hospital and our affiliated surgeons have long been recognized for providing our joint patients, including our ankle joint replacement patients, with the highest level of care. We've been named one of Healthgrades' America's Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement. We have also received the Healthgrades Joint Replacement Excellence Award and been named among the Top 10% in the Nation for Joint Replacement.