Ankle Replacement Surgery (Ankle Arthroplasty)

Return to Active Lifestyle
If you suffer from painful ankle arthritis and nonsurgical treatments have been ineffective, ankle replacement surgery -- also known as ankle arthroplasty or total ankle replacement -- may be your best option for returning to an active lifestyle. It's a newer option than ankle fusion, which limits your ankle’s range of motion. Your foot and ankle surgeon will evaluate the extent and severity of your ankle arthritis, as well as several other factors -- including your age, health, and activity level -- to determine whether you are a candidate.

Less Pain, More Range of Motion
During the procedure, your worn-out ankle joint is replaced with a metal and plastic artificial joint that mimics your ankle’s natural movement. This allows you to walk with a more natural gait and protects your surrounding joints from developing arthritis. As a result, you experience less pain and more range of motion.

Recovery Period
The recovery period is typically three to six weeks in a cast, followed by physical therapy. While the artificial ankle can wear out and may need to be replaced, research shows 90% are still functioning well 10 years after surgery.

Ankle replacement surgery is a complex procedure that should be performed by an experienced surgeon who specializes in the procedure.

Extensive Experience
Duke’s foot and ankle surgeons are considered among the best ankle replacement surgeons because they routinely perform high volumes of ankle revision and ankle replacement surgeries, including those using 3D printed technology. Because of our extensive experience, we often recommend total ankle replacements to people who have been told at other centers that they are not candidates.

Ankle Replacement Research Leaders
Duke has been involved in the testing and evaluation of all the ankle replacements on the market in the U.S.  We can pick the most appropriate one for your individual needs. This results in positive patient outcomes.

Solid Success Record
Our extensive patient database allows us to assess the performance of replacement joints over time. This means you will only get a device or undergo a surgery that has a solid record of success.