If you have sustained damage to your ankle and are struggling with chronic pain and instability, ankle reconstruction surgery could provide relief. The entire ankle joint, or just a portion of it, can be replaced with an artificial implant. Patients undergoing the procedure regain proper function in the ankle, while chronic symptoms are alleviated. The skilled podiatrists and foot surgeons at the Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery in Burbank, Northridge, and Santa Clarita, CA, can determine if ankle reconstruction surgery is an option for you.
What is ankle reconstruction surgery?
Ankle reconstruction surgery is a procedure for restoring proper function to a damaged ankle joint. During the procedure, the damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial implant. Following recovery from surgery, symptoms such as chronic pain and inflammation should diminish or disappear.
When is ankle reconstruction surgery needed?
Many types of ankle injuries and conditions can be treated using non-surgical methods. However, persistent ankle problems, such as chronic inflammation or instability, can significantly damage the ankle joint over time. Ankle reconstruction surgery restores the ankle joint and provides relief from chronic symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, inflammation, and instability. The experienced podiatrists at our practice in Burbank can determine if you need ankle reconstruction surgery.
What does ankle reconstruction surgery involve?
Before surgery, general anesthesia is administered so patients are asleep throughout the entire procedure. During the surgery, either the entire ankle joint or the damaged portion of it is removed. Then the artificial implant is carefully set in place. The procedure can take a little more than two hours if the full ankle joint is being replaced. Following surgery patients wear a splint over the foot and ankle for the next few weeks. Crutches might be needed during that time, as well. The recovery process takes several months for the ankle area to completely heal.
Ankle reconstruction surgery can help you regain the complete function of your ankle without chronic pain, inflammation, or instability. Schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable podiatrists to learn more about ankle reconstruction surgery by calling the Los Angeles Institute of Foot and Ankle Surgery in Burbank, Northridge, and Santa Clarita, CA, at (818) 848-5588.