Ankle Fusion
If you have degenerative arthritis in your ankle, normally as a result of an ankle fracture, or a severe deformity of your ankle, your podiatrist may recommend a total ankle replacement or ankle fusion as the next step to relieve your pain.
Historically, when someone suffered from ankle arthritis, their only choice was an ankle fusion, a surgery to fuse bones in the ankle together. This surgery is successful in elimination of pain, but it also limits motion.
During an ankle fusion, Chad D. Brady, DPM, FACFAS removes the articular cartilage separating the tibia or shinbone and the talus, the small bone connecting the tibia to the heel bone, to make the two bones grow together. Cuts are made in both areas so that the foot is at a right angle to the lower leg. Then the bones are held together with the use of metal plates and screws inserted under the skin while the body fuses these bones together. Ankle fusion can be done arthroscopically with minimal incisions and a small camera inserted into the joint.
After your surgery, Dr. Brady will wrap your ankle in a padded plaster cast. The cast will be replaced after two weeks with a short-leg cast. No weight should be placed on your foot until your podiatrist is sure the bones are fusing, usually an eight to twelve week period. Dr. Brady will schedule frequent X-rays to determine if the bones are fusing and once confirmed, an ankle brace will replace the cast.
Your surgery team will discuss with you all follow up details. While you will not be able to run normally after ankle fusion surgery, you will be able to walk with a natural gait following physical therapy and shoe modifications.
Evanston Regional Hospital is also proud to offer total ankle replacement as an alternative to ankle fusion. A total ankle replacement also eliminates pain but preserves motion. However, not everyone is a candidate for total ankle replacements.
Talk with board-certified podiatrist Chad D. Brady, DPM FACFAS about whether an ankle fusion or total ankle replacement is right for you. Schedule a consultation at www.EvanstonAnytime.com or call 307-789-9355 (WELL).
Appointments and referrals
Call 307-789-9355
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