Ankle Replacement Surgeons in Kansas City, MO

Reasons for Ankle Replacement Surgery

Ankle replacement surgery is typically recommended after treatments like physical therapy, medication, and braces haven’t provided sufficient relief. Ankle replacement surgery may be considered for patients who have:

• Chronic ankle pain and inflammation that impacts their daily activities, limit their mobility and have not responded to conservative treatment. 
• Traumatic injuries such as severe ankle fractures that damaged the joint and for whom reconstruction didn’t or won’t work to restore normal joint function.
• Ankle arthritis is one of the most common reasons for ankle replacement, usually due to a history of an ankle injury, wear and tear, or degenerative medical conditions. Arthritis can cause inflammation, swelling, and limited range of motion.
• Prior failed ankle fusion, which led to continued pain and mobility problems. Ankle replacement can help restore ankle function and reduce pain for unsuccessful ankle fusion surgery patients.

Benefits of Ankle Replacement Surgery

Nobody should live with chronic pain that limits their ability to live life to the fullest. If your doctor has recommended ankle replacement surgery, some benefits are:

• Reduced pain and improved mobility
• Improved gait or walking pattern
• Positive changes in quality of life and a return to daily activities and hobbies
• Decreased risk of co-occurring joint problems from overcompensating for the “bad” ankle. 

The Ankle Replacement Procedure

Once you and your orthopedic surgeon have determined you’re a good candidate for ankle replacement surgery. In that case, your medical team will get a thorough medical history, examine the ankle, and order imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI to better understand the joint damage. The surgery is done under general anesthesia and requires a short hospital stay. Recovery includes pain management, physical therapy, wearing a splint or cast, and using crutches or a walker until your medical team clears you to begin bearing weight on the joint. You’ll also need to schedule and keep follow-up appointments so your medical team can check for complications and monitor your healing progress.