Your operation
Depending on the surgical treatment you have chosen, you may expect the following:
Arthroscopy
Using keyhole surgery, two very small incisions (usually less than 1cm in length) are made by the surgeon to gain access into the ankle joint. As a relatively small joint, its dimensions need to be increased temporarily to allow access. This is done using distraction across the joint, combined with a circulating stream of pressurised fluid, to effectively distend it. Small pieces of cartilage debris from inside the ankle is effectively ‘cleaned out’ with the aid of a very small camera positioned inside the joint and specially designed instrumentation.
Ankle replacement
The surgeon will make an incision approximately 15cm long over the front of the ankle. The ankle joint is entered by making an incision into the joint capsule that surrounds it. The surgeon will then remove the worn-out cartilage and damaged surfaces of the tibia and fibula to prepare them for the metal ‘joint’ of the new ankle prosthesis. The top of the talus is then prepared for the insertion of the metal talar component. Once the new metal implants have been fitted, a plastic insert is placed between them, allowing the new joint to move freely. The muscles and ligaments are then repositioned and the joint capsule sown back together. The skin will be closed up again using either stitches or surgical staples and dressings are applied to the wound. Following an ankle replacement or fusion, the leg will usually be encased in plaster and an ankle brace to support the new joint. Whereas you will probably be permitted to leave hospital later on the same day following an arthroscopy, you should allow for a stay of between two to three days after an ankle replacement or fusion operation.
Ankle fusion (Arthrodesis)
An arthrodesis may be carried out either as ‘open’ surgery or arthroscopically (keyhole surgery). One or two incisions will be made over the ankle and the damaged cartilage and bone surfaces removed. A separate cut may also be made over the rim of the pelvis bone to allow bone to be taken from this area if needs be. The joint will be placed into a functional position where it is held together, most commonly with large screws beneath the skin.
Important: The information and guidance provided here is general in nature and should not be considered as medical advice in any way. You should always seek detailed advice from a qualified medical practitioner.
