Your feet carry you through life, and they have to endure a constant load of different pressures and weights. It is understandable that your ankles, which are notoriously complex and sensitive, will start to hurt after a while. If you are dealing with undue pain, do not wait to contact your local podiatrist. We can provide a number of treatments to help you relieve pain and heal your foot, including popular ankle surgery options.
What Are the Types of Ankle Surgery?
Ankle surgery encompasses a range of procedures aimed at addressing various conditions affecting the ankle joint, from injuries to degenerative conditions. Depending on the specific issue and its severity, different types of ankle surgery may be recommended to restore function, relieve pain, and improve mobility. If you have ever wondered, “What are the types of ankle surgery?” then this guide is a great place to start.
Ankle Arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat various ankle joint problems. This can include cartilage damage, ligament injuries, and generic inflammation. During the procedure, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the ankle joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to see the internal structures of the ankle and perform necessary repairs using specialized instruments. Ankle arthroscopy offers several benefits, including shorter recovery times, reduced postoperative pain, and minimal scarring.
Ankle Fracture Repair Surgery
While fractures can be less intensive than breaks, they still may require surgical repairs. That is why we offer ankle fracture repair surgery, a popular option for physically active people. Ankle fracture repair surgery is performed to realign and stabilize broken bones in the ankle joint.
An ankle fracture may occur as a result of trauma, such as a fall or a sports injury, and can vary in severity depending on the extent of the break. In some cases, ankle fractures may be treated non-surgically with immobilization in a cast or brace. However, for more complex fractures or fractures that have caused significant displacement of the bones, surgery may be necessary to restore proper alignment. Following surgery, patients may undergo physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and function in the ankle.
Ankle Replacement
Ankle replacement is performed to replace the ankle joint with an artificial implant. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe ankle arthritis who have not responded to conservative treatments such as medication or physical therapy. It is usually not a first-resort treatment.
During ankle replacement surgery, the damaged joint surfaces are removed, and a prosthetic implant made of metal and plastic components is inserted to recreate the natural movement of the ankle joint. Ankle replacement surgery can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore function in the ankle, allowing patients to return to their normal activities with reduced discomfort.
Ankle Reconstruction
Like ankle replacement, total reconstruction is a procedure reserved only for those with extreme breaks or fractures. This surgery helps to repair or rebuild damaged ligaments, tendons, or bones in the ankle joint. This procedure is used for patients with severe ankle instability, recurrent sprains, or extensive ligament damage due to trauma or chronic conditions. Ankle reconstruction may involve a combination of techniques. This can include ligament repair, tendon transfer, bone grafting, or joint fusion.
The goal of ankle reconstruction is to restore stability, improve joint function, and prevent further injury or degeneration. While recovery from ankle reconstruction surgery may be more extensive than other types of ankle surgery, many patients experience significant improvements in pain and mobility following the procedure.
Find the Best Ankle Treatment Today!
Ankle surgery encompasses a range of procedures designed to address various conditions affecting the ankle joint. Whether it’s repairing ligament injuries, replacing a damaged joint, or stabilizing fractures, ankle surgery can help restore function and alleviate pain for patients with ankle problems. If you are in persistent pain or discomfort, get in touch with our ankle pain treatment specialist to learn more.
