Ankle arthritis
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis lead to cartilage damage that can cause discomfort, swelling and physical abnormalities. To treat arthritis-induced ankle disorders, we employ one of three procedures.
During an ankle fusion procedure, we anchor your foot to your ankle at a right angle with screws so a new bone can grow in about 12 to 14 weeks while you wear a custom cast for support. Some standard ankle fusion surgeries are done arthroscopically through a small incision, which takes between one and two hours.
A triple fusion melds three joints together using a mix of plates, screws and staples.
An ankle replacement is more advanced and requires removal of tibia and talus bones and replacement with plastic or metal components. Because it is more invasive, ankle replacement surgeries require a brief hospital stay and crutches during recovery for about six weeks.