Ankle Replacement/Ankle Arthroplasty

Dr. Kirchner with patient after having a total ankle replacement

Ankle Replacement/Ankle Arthroplasty in Hoover and Birmingham, Alabama

The ankle is an important joint used for everyday mobility. Not only does it allow a person to flex their foot freely, but it also supports a person’s weight when standing, walking, or running. As a result of its heavy usage and stress, the ankle is particularly susceptible to injury. It also accumulates heavy wear and tear that may impact its ability to function normally, resulting in severe pain and reduced mobility.

Southlake Orthopaedics, located in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, AL, serves individuals who struggle with orthopedic conditions. Our multi-specialty team provides comprehensive care from diagnosis to rehabilitation with expertise in a range of treatments from conservative methods to total ankle replacement. Learn more about ankle replacement and arthroplasty at Southlake Orthopaedics.

What Is an Ankle Replacement and Why Is It Needed?

An ankle replacement, also called an ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure used to treat a damaged or diseased ankle joint. By replacing damaged bone and cartilage tissue with an artificial implant, doctors can restore normal mobility while relieving pain and inflammation.

Ankle replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients experiencing pain that does not respond to conservative treatments. In most cases, it is used to treat arthritis. A layer of cartilage is found within all joints, acting as a cushion and lubricant to enable smooth movement. When the cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against one another painfully. Ankle arthritis may be caused by age, previous diseases, or an autoimmune disease.

In some cases, ankle arthroplasty is recommended for other conditions. It may be used to treat a severe fracture or another injury, especially if the injury will not heal normally without surgery. Southlake Orthopaedics may also perform arthroplasty to address a previous surgery that has failed due to infection, a loose implant, or other reasons. A second procedure provides an opportunity to correct the issue for a true recovery.

Dr. Kirchner with hardware post-surgery procedure

Ankle Replacement Surgery at Southlake Orthopaedics

Southlake Orthopaedics typically recommends surgery when conservative methods have failed to provide relief. To ensure patients are medically fit for surgery, our process begins with a testing phase. Pre-operative evaluations may include imaging tests such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), along with electrodiagnostics. These provide surgeons with a clear image of the patient’s condition to help them plan an effective treatment.

If the patient is a good candidate for arthroplasty, we then move on to the treatment phase. The surgical procedure begins with administering anesthesia. Once the patient is safely under the effects of the drug, the surgeon makes an incision over the affected ankle joint. They use this incision to remove damaged portions of the shin (tibia) and ankle (talus) bones. The surgeon will then attach new metal joint surfaces to the joint. A piece of plastic is inserted between them to act as artificial cartilage, allowing the joint to pivot smoothly. Finally, the incision is closed and covered with a protective dressing.

After surgery, some patients will go home the same day, while others may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Pain medications are used to ease the discomfort. Patients can expect to wear a splint and use crutches for a couple of weeks to allow the ankle to heal. A Southlake Orthopaedics physician will provide further instructions on rehabilitation as the patient recovers.

Meet Our Ankle Orthopedic Specialists

Patients at Southlake Orthopaedics receive outstanding personalized care from a multi-specialty team of board-certified specialists. We aim to provide complete orthopedic care, from diagnosis to rehabilitation, to produce long-lasting positive results. Our ankle specialists have expertise in treating patients of all ages and with a variety of conditions. Ankle physicians at Southlake Orthopaedics include:

Find Ankle Pain Treatment in Alabama

Southlake Orthopaedics offers less pain and more living for patients struggling with ankle pain. Our comprehensive approach to orthopedic care covers every phase from diagnosis to ankle replacement surgery and rehabilitation. We serve central Alabama patients at our locations in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, AL. Contact us to learn more about ankle surgery or to schedule an appointment.