Ankle Replacement
Ankles are the joints that connect our feet to our legs and allow for a whole range of motion that allow us to do many of the simply things we take for granted such as walking. An orthopedic surgeon will tell you that those who have lost the function of an ankle or two does not take them for granted, however. When healthy, ankles allow for a range of different motions but these joints take a lot of abuse and can easily become damaged and have reduced function. Sometimes this damage can become so sever that the entire ankle must be replaced in order to restore function. Luckily, there have been many improvements to these procedures and now an ankle replacement in Short Hills is likely to be very successful.
There are several goals for any ankle replacement surgery. The main goal is to restore the original function and abilities of the joint by replicating the old joint with a new prosthetic model. Each surgery is designed to be a long-term solution, with the joint being installed properly and lasting for a long time. By properly installing the joint, the surgeon can be sure that it will cause a minimal amount of wear on the existing bones and will transfer weight loads naturally and safely.
The technical name for ankle replacement is ankle arthroplasty, though it is commonly referred to as ankle replacement. This procedure began to be developed in the 1970’s as an alternative to the common procedure of the time for ankle problems, ankle arthrodesis, where a surgeon would fuse the bones of the ankle together, severely reducing the function of the joint. Early examples of this procedure did not produce great results and it wasn’t until later in the 80’s and 90’s that the procedure really came into its own as viable option for those with sever ankle problems.
What are Ankles?
Before we get into the specifics of what exactly ankle replacement is, it’s important that we understand what ankles are and how they function. The ankle is the joint where three main bones come together, the talus or foot, and the tibia and fibula of the leg. Several strong ligaments that keep the bones moving correctly hold this joint together, allowing for a range of motion.
Preparation for Replacement
There are many tests and preparations that need to be made before an ankle replacement surgery can take place. These may include hematology and blood tests, as well as other physical examinations such as urine tests or ECG. Most doctors will recommend a cross match of the blood in case a transfusion is required during the surgery. The surgeon will need to examine x-rays of the affected joint and then discuss different models of implants in order to find the best-suited model for the patient’s needs and condition.
After Surgery
Even though it can be quite painful, post-surgery patients are encouraged to begin physical therapy quickly as the sooner it is started; the better the chances are for recovering full mobility. This also greatly reduces the risks of other complications that can arise from these types of procedures. Patients will be given and guided through a physical therapy program. These programs do not consist of strenuous exercise but instead focus on range of motion and flexibility. The exercises gradually become more involved and more complicated as function is restored to the joint.
Materials
Artificial joints are made of a few different materials that are designed to be extremely durable. The last thing that anyone who has undergone a joint replacement surgery wants to go through is another surgery so these joints are designed to be tough. Some of the materials commonly used are ceramics such as alumina, zirconia, silica, and titanium. Titanium and titanium alloys are popular choices because they are extremely tough and work well with medical imaging.
Who is a Good Candidate for this Procedure?
Generally speaking, individuals who are healthy enough to undergo a major operation and have healthy enough bones are good candidates. The surgery is designed for those with severe posttraumatic osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals with osteoporosis in the joint will not make good candidates for this procedure.
There are several goals for any ankle replacement surgery. The main goal is to restore the original function and abilities of the joint by replicating the old joint with a new prosthetic model. Each surgery is designed to be a long-term solution, with the joint being installed properly and lasting for a long time. By properly installing the joint, the surgeon can be sure that it will cause a minimal amount of wear on the existing bones and will transfer weight loads naturally and safely.
The technical name for ankle replacement is ankle arthroplasty, though it is commonly referred to as ankle replacement. This procedure began to be developed in the 1970’s as an alternative to the common procedure of the time for ankle problems, ankle arthrodesis, where a surgeon would fuse the bones of the ankle together, severely reducing the function of the joint. Early examples of this procedure did not produce great results and it wasn’t until later in the 80’s and 90’s that the procedure really came into its own as viable option for those with sever ankle problems.
What are Ankles?
Before we get into the specifics of what exactly ankle replacement is, it’s important that we understand what ankles are and how they function. The ankle is the joint where three main bones come together, the talus or foot, and the tibia and fibula of the leg. Several strong ligaments that keep the bones moving correctly hold this joint together, allowing for a range of motion.
Preparation for Replacement
There are many tests and preparations that need to be made before an ankle replacement surgery can take place. These may include hematology and blood tests, as well as other physical examinations such as urine tests or ECG. Most doctors will recommend a cross match of the blood in case a transfusion is required during the surgery. The surgeon will need to examine x-rays of the affected joint and then discuss different models of implants in order to find the best-suited model for the patient’s needs and condition.
After Surgery
Even though it can be quite painful, post-surgery patients are encouraged to begin physical therapy quickly as the sooner it is started; the better the chances are for recovering full mobility. This also greatly reduces the risks of other complications that can arise from these types of procedures. Patients will be given and guided through a physical therapy program. These programs do not consist of strenuous exercise but instead focus on range of motion and flexibility. The exercises gradually become more involved and more complicated as function is restored to the joint.
Materials
Artificial joints are made of a few different materials that are designed to be extremely durable. The last thing that anyone who has undergone a joint replacement surgery wants to go through is another surgery so these joints are designed to be tough. Some of the materials commonly used are ceramics such as alumina, zirconia, silica, and titanium. Titanium and titanium alloys are popular choices because they are extremely tough and work well with medical imaging.
Who is a Good Candidate for this Procedure?
Generally speaking, individuals who are healthy enough to undergo a major operation and have healthy enough bones are good candidates. The surgery is designed for those with severe posttraumatic osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals with osteoporosis in the joint will not make good candidates for this procedure.