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Common Questions About Ankle Replacement Surgery

Ankle Replacement Surgery

Ankle replacement has allowed millions of people to return to more active lifestyles.

Ankle replacement surgery is one of the most important decisions you will make. Your surgeon will help you decide if it’s the right choice for you. Here are some common questions and resources that may be helpful when considering ankle surgery.

Exactech Ankle Replacement Woman walking dog

Answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Ankle replacement patients can expect to be in the operating room for two to three hours.

Full recovery from an ankle replacement may take as long as six months with continuous improvement for the next two years.* For the most success after surgery, you will need to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions. Every patient recovery experience is unique, so be sure to talk with your doctor about your progress. Your doctor will decide if physical therapy is right for you and what restrictions may apply.

*This information is based on the experiences of the Vantage Ankle design team surgeons.

Ankle replacement is a major surgery. Although it works very well in most cases, some patients may have problems. Any of these problems could lead to more surgery:

  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Broken implant
  • Implant not positioned just right
  • Implant wears out faster than you would like

To lower your risks for problems during surgery, your surgeon may ask you to get some tests ahead of time. You can likely get these from your primary care doctor. You also may need to have any dental problems fixed before surgery. If needed, you should get your home ready so that you have a clear place to walk and can avoid falling.

Each patient is different. Your surgeon will help you decide when it is safe for you to do certain things. But, most patients are able to get back to normal activities in three to six weeks.*

You can likely get back to other activities, like golf, in three to four months after surgery, or when your surgeon says it is safe.*

*This information is based on the experiences of the Vantage Ankle design team surgeons.

Resources for ankle replacement surgery

With any surgery, there are potential risks, and results will vary depending on the patient. Joint replacement surgery is not for everyone. Check with your physician to determine if you are a candidate for joint replacement surgery. Your physician will consider the risks and benefits associated with this procedure, as well as individual factors such as the cause of your condition, your age, height, weight and activity level.

 

The information contained within this website is for educational purposes only and is not providing medical advice. This information is not intended to replace the expert guidance of your orthopaedic surgeon. Please direct any questions or concerns you may have to your orthopaedic surgeon. Decisions concerning patient care and treatment should be made solely by your physician(s). With any surgery, there are potential risks and results will vary depending on the patient.