Checking on My Ankle Replacement

Ankle replacement is used in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or after severe ankle injury. The diseased or damaged parts of the ankle joint are removed and replaced with an implant to reduce pain while allowing movement of the ankle.

Since an ankle implant procedure is a long-term treatment option for ankle joint pain, there is a possibility that the replacement ankle may eventually wear out or fail.

The life expectancy of an ankle implant is largely dependant on a patient's activity level, weight, and the condition of the bone around the ankle. In the event complications with your ankle implant occur, a second surgery may need to be performed to replace the existing implant.

If you have had ankle replacement surgery, the following signs might indicate there are complications with your ankle implant:

• Delayed wound healing
• Increased ankle pain
• Swelling
• Drainage
• Elevated temperature
• Reduced motion or instability of your ankle
• Pain around your ankle after a fall

If you suspect there may be problems with your ankle implant, consult your doctor immediately. Your doctor will most likely take an x-ray to determine if there are complications with your ankle implant. The most common treatment is to undergo another ankle replacement surgery.

Last Updated: 10/16/2007