If you have severe ankle arthritis, you may eventually need surgery to relieve pain and improve your ability to walk. Two common surgical options are ankle replacement and ankle fusion. While both procedures can reduce arthritis pain, they work in very different ways.
So, which is right for you? The answer depends on factors such as your age, activity level, bone quality, ankle alignment, arthritis severity, and overall health. The orthopedic specialists at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay can evaluate your ankle and discuss which treatment best fits your individual needs.
What Is Ankle Replacement?
Ankle replacement surgery, also called total ankle arthroplasty, removes damaged portions of the ankle joint and replaces them with artificial components. The goal is to reduce pain while preserving movement in the ankle.
One potential advantage of ankle replacement is that it allows the ankle to continue moving after surgery. Preserving motion may also help reduce the stress placed on nearby joints.
Ankle replacement may be considered for people with advanced ankle arthritis who want to maintain ankle motion and meet the appropriate medical criteria. However, artificial ankle implants can eventually wear out or require additional surgery.
What Is Ankle Fusion?
Ankle fusion surgery, or ankle arthrodesis, permanently joins the bones that form the ankle joint. By eliminating movement through the arthritic joint, fusion can significantly reduce or eliminate pain caused by bone-on-bone contact.
The tradeoff is that the ankle no longer moves at the fused joint. Other joints in the foot and ankle can compensate for some of this lost motion, allowing many patients to walk and perform everyday activities.
Fusion has been used for many years and can be an option for patients with severe ankle arthritis, certain deformities, or other conditions that make ankle replacement less appropriate.
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Ankle Replacement vs. Fusion: Key Differences
The primary difference is motion. Ankle replacement is designed to preserve joint movement, while fusion eliminates movement at the arthritic ankle joint.
Other considerations include:
- Pain relief: Both procedures are designed to relieve arthritis-related pain.
- Ankle motion: Replacement preserves motion; fusion eliminates motion at the ankle joint.
- Implant considerations: Replacement uses an artificial joint that can wear over time.
- Activity: Your surgeon will recommend activity restrictions based on your procedure, bone health, and recovery.
- Patient factors: Age, activity level, alignment, bone quality, and previous ankle surgeries can influence the recommendation.
Which Ankle Surgery Is Right for You?
There is no single procedure that is appropriate for everyone with ankle arthritis. A Tampa Bay orthopedic surgeon can evaluate your symptoms, imaging, medical history, and goals before recommending treatment.
If conservative treatments such as medication, bracing, injections, activity modification, or physical therapy no longer provide adequate relief, ankle replacement or ankle fusion may be considered.
Find the Best Option For You Near Ruskin. Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay Offers Comprehensive Ankle Treatments In Sun City.
Visit Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay in Sun City today or call (813) 684-BONE (2663) to book an appointment for ankle replacement or ankle fusion surgery near you. We gladly care for our Ruskin patients with a custom treatment plan and comprehensive foot and ankle services.
