Total Ankle Replacement

You might consider a total ankle replacement if you have ankle instability or another similar condition that affects your mobility and quality of life. At Babak Kosari, DPM Inc, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Babak Kosari, DPM, boasts years of experience performing total ankle replacement. The procedure is quick, effective, and provides lasting results. Call the nearest office in the neighborhood of Santa Clarita, California, or the Northridge neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, or book an appointment online today.

What is total ankle replacement?

Total ankle replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a diseased or damaged ankle joint with an artificial prosthesis. The prosthesis is made of a tough material like metal or ceramic. Once placed, the artificial joint relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and enhances your mobility.

Who can benefit from total ankle replacement?

Total ankle replacement may be beneficial if you have ankle arthritis and it causes chronic pain or affects your mobility. Ankle surgery can also help if you have difficulty walking, working, or doing other activities you enjoy. 

How do I get ready for a total ankle replacement?

Your Babak Kosari, DPM Inc provider performs a complete physical before recommending total ankle replacement. 

During the exam, make sure to let them know about the prescription medications you take, and if you have any underlying medical issues. If you smoke, your provider might ask you to quit to reduce your risk of infection and speed up your recovery.

What happens during a total ankle replacement?

Your Babak Kosari, DPM Inc provider performs total ankle replacement at a nearby hospital or surgical facility.

Before treatment, they administer general anesthesia into a vein in your arm, causing you to fall asleep. Once you’re comfortable, your surgeon makes a small incision at the front of your ankle. Then, they use special tools to remove the damaged bone, cartilage, and surrounding tissue.

Your provider replaces the damaged tissue with prosthetic pieces. They connect the pieces, check your joint’s range of motion, and align your foot and ankle. Then, they close the incision and move you to a recovery room for observation.

What is recovery like after total ankle replacement?

You stay in the hospital for two or three days after total ankle replacement. During that time, get plenty of rest, take your medication as prescribed, and drink lots of fluids.

About a week into your recovery, you begin physical therapy. Physical therapy incorporates stretches, strengthening exercises, and manual treatments, like massage, to speed up your recovery process.

Make sure to attend each of your scheduled physical therapy sessions to maximize the results of treatment.

Learn more about total ankle replacement by making an appointment at Babak Kosari, DPM Inc. Call the nearest office or book online today.