Ankle surgery encompasses various procedures depending on the specific issue, but a common one is ankle fusion.
Here's a breakdown of how ankle fusion surgery is typically performed:
Procedure Overview:
Ankle fusion (also called ankle arthrodesis) aims to relieve pain caused by arthritis or severe ankle damage by permanently joining the bones of the ankle together. This eliminates motion at the joint, thus reducing pain.
Steps Involved:
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Preparation: The patient is given anesthesia (either general or spinal). The surgical site is cleaned and prepped.
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Incision: The surgeon makes an incision (cut) on the front or side of the ankle to access the joint. The exact location depends on the surgeon's preference and the nature of the ankle problem.
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Cartilage Removal: Any remaining cartilage in the ankle joint is removed.
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Bone Preparation: The surgeon roughens the ends of the damaged bones. This stimulates bone growth and promotes fusion.
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Positioning: The ankle is positioned in the optimal alignment for function after the fusion.
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Fixation: The bones are then fastened together with metal plates and screws. This provides stability while the bones heal and fuse. Sometimes, bone grafts (either from the patient or a donor) are used to help with the fusion process.
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Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples.
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Immobilization: The ankle is placed in a cast or boot to immobilize it and allow the bones to fuse properly.
Post-operative Care:
- The patient will need to keep weight off the ankle for several weeks or months, depending on the surgeon's instructions and the rate of healing.
- Physical therapy is often prescribed to help regain strength and range of motion in the surrounding joints after the cast or boot is removed.
While ankle fusion can effectively relieve pain, it's important to remember that it also eliminates ankle motion. Other types of ankle surgery, such as ankle replacement, may be considered in certain cases to preserve movement. The specific surgical approach will always depend on the individual's condition and the surgeon's recommendations.
