Total ankle replacement (TAR), also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that foot and ankle surgeons use to treat ankle arthritis and deformities. We are happy to provide this service at our podiatry office in Rancho Santa Margarita and Newport Beach.
Ankle replacement surgery is a newer procedure that is similar to knee replacement. Arthritic changes may occur due to normal wear and tear, or from an injury such as a broken ankle. Total ankle replacement surgery helps to address these issues. A diagnosis of arthritis can be determined through a physical exam, radiographs (x-rays), and advanced imaging such as CT scans and MRIs.
The goal of total ankle replacement surgery is to provide pain relief while preserving ankle motion so that the patient has less pain and better function during activity. We are proud to have Dr. Jessica Arneson on staff at our clinic, as she was part of a foot and ankle surgical fellowship specializing in total ankle replacements.
If non-surgical treatment options cannot relieve the ankle pain being caused by arthritis, surgery will most likely be needed.
In total ankle replacement surgery, the joint is removed and replaced with an artificial implant made of metal and plastic. If appropriate, some patients can qualify for custom CT-guided implants.
After total ankle replacement surgery it’s normal to experience occasional swelling and numbness for a few months, which should continue to resolve. You will be unable to bear weight until the incision heals, which is typically around two weeks. After this, you will begin weight bearing in a protective boot, and you will also begin physical therapy. The goal is to have patients out of their protective boot and returning to regular shoe wear at six weeks.
There are conservative treatment options to address the symptoms of arthritis. Non-surgical treatments include oral/topical anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, custom orthotics, and cortisone injections.
Cortisone injections are very common for an arthritic joint, and can provide months of relief. None of these options will replace your arthritis, but many can assist with symptomatic relief in an attempt to avoid surgical intervention.
Foot & Ankle Specialty Group is a professional and nurturing team of female surgeons with a focus on getting you back to your activities and life. We are happy to provide ankle replacement surgery at our modern, sophisticated, comfortable podiatry office in Rancho Santa Margarita and Newport Beach. Founded by Dr. Salma Aziz, D.P.M, M.S. in 2001, our clinic has been built on time-tested practices. We spend plenty of time with each patient in order to fully understand their unique condition, and we follow up with care. Dr. Jessica Arneson has an extensive background in ankle replacement surgery, and our goal is to help you feel your best.
