About
Overview
Total Ankle Replacement (TAR) is a surgical procedure in which the damaged cartilage and bone of the ankle joint are replaced with a specially designed artificial implant. The goal is to restore smooth ankle motion, reduce pain, and improve overall function in patients suffering from advanced ankle arthritis.
Who Needs Ankle Replacement?
It’s important to go into surgery and rehabilitation (recovery) with realistic expectations. Talk to members of your care team about how to get ready for the procedure. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for challenges and plan for recovery. Before surgery, your team may recommend that you:
- You may be a candidate for Total Ankle Replacement if you have:
- Severe ankle pain that limits day-to-day activities.
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the ankle.
- Advanced ankle arthritis (post-traumatic, degenerative, or inflammatory).
- Pain unresponsive to medications, physiotherapy, injections, or bracing.
- Difficulty walking due to ankle joint wear and tear.
Benefits of Total Ankle Replacement
- Significant pain relief.
- Improved mobility and stability.
- Preservation of ankle joint motion (unlike ankle fusion).
- More natural gait and better overall function.
- Potential for quicker return to daily activities.
Risks of the Procedure
- While TAR is generally safe, possible risks include:
- Infection.
- Loosening or wear of the implant over time.
- Nerve or blood vessel injury.
- Blood clots.
- Wound healing issues.
- Rare risk of implant failure requiring revision surgery.
Procedure Details
How Do I Prepare for This Procedure?
- You will undergo a detailed clinical evaluation, X-rays, and sometimes CT scans.
- Your surgeon will review medications and advise if any need to be stopped (e.g., blood thinners).
- You may need pre-operative physiotherapy to strengthen nearby muscles.
- Avoid smoking, as it slows healing.
What Happens During This Procedure?
- The surgery is performed under spinal or general anaesthesia.
- A small incision is made in the front of the ankle.
- Damaged bone and cartilage are removed.
- Metal and high-grade plastic components are placed to recreate a smooth joint.
- Proper alignment is checked using X-ray guidance.
- Added procedure may be needed if there is laxity in ligament, valgus hindoot, etc.
- The incision is closed and a dressing or splint is applied.
What Happens After This Procedure?
- You may stay in the hospital for 2-3 days.
- Initially, the ankle is protected in a splint or boot.
- Your surgeon will guide you on when to start gentle movements.
- Physiotherapy begins gradually to restore mobility and walking ability.
- Weight-bearing is usually allowed in stages based on healing.
How Long Is Recovery After This Procedure?
- Most patients begin walking with support within 4–6 weeks.
- Full recovery typically takes 3–6 months, depending on individual healing.
- Returning to high-impact sports is not recommended, but walking, light exercises, and daily activities are encouraged after recovery.
When Should I Call My Healthcare Provider After This Procedure?
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Increasing pain, redness, or swelling around the incision.
- Fever or chills.
- Numbness or weakness in the foot.
- Excessive bleeding or discharge from the wound.
- Difficulty walking beyond expected levels.
Doctors & Departments
Departments and Specialties
Astenortho has one of the largest and most experienced practices. Staff skilled in dozens of specialties work together to ensure quality care and successful recovery.
Departments with Related Expertise
Doctors Who Perform This Procedure
Care at Astenortho
Astenortho's Approach
Cutting-Edge Technology
AstenOrtho is Kerala’s Most Tech-Advanced Orthopaedic Hospital, with advanced robotics and some of the finest health-tech, which has proven time and again to give excellent patient outcomes. Our seasoned specialists combine their experience and AstenOrtho’s technological edge to keep evolving the AS.10 Robotic Precision Protocols; to keep pushing the bar of the care delivery models.
Collaboration
We host some of the best surgeons, specialists, therapists, and healthcare workers who work as one strong team to ensure best possible treatment outcomes, and ‘Zero Compromise Care’ for our patients at AstenOrtho.
Compassion
We understand the human urge of keep doing and wanting to do the things they love. At AstenOrtho, ‘Do What You Love’ is the core philosophy that drives us to ensure that we give our best shot in achieving the ‘Desired Mobility’, our patients need.
Experience and Patient Stories
Our Centres & Departments
Center for Spine Surgery
Anaesthesiology
Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation
Centre for Bone & Joints
Centre For Paediatric Ortho
Center for Emergency Department
Centre for Reconstructive Surgery
Advanced Dental Centre
Centre for Ortho Wellness
General Medicine & Diabetology
Centre for Sports Medicine
Costs and Insurance
AstenOrtho is empanelled with leading insurance providers both within and outside India. For more details on a specific insurance provider or to understand the insurance process, you can write to us: hello@astenortho.com
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