What is Ankle Surgery?
Ankle surgery is a medical procedure aimed at correcting and restoring the function and structure of the ankle joint and its surrounding tissues, following an injury, deformity, or chronic condition. It is typically performed by orthopedic surgeons who specialize in foot and ankle surgery. Depending on the urgency and underlying cause, ankle surgery can be categorized as either elective or emergency.
Why do you Need Ankle Surgery?
Elective ankle surgery may be necessary for conditions such as:
- Osteochondral lesions of the talus
- Chronic instability due to repeated ankle sprains
- Arthritis of the ankle joint
- Achilles tendon disorders, including tendinosis and ruptures
- Deformities like bunions and hammertoes
- Neuromuscular disorders affecting the ankle and foot
Emergency ankle surgery is often required for:
- Acute fractures of the ankle bones
- Severe ligament tears and injuries
- Compound fractures where the bone pierces the skin
- Infections that compromise the joint
- Traumatic dislocations of the ankle joint
Types of Ankle Surgery
Common surgical procedures for the ankle include:
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgery using a camera and small instruments to diagnose and treat joint problems.
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): This procedure realigns fractured bones and secures them with screws, plates, or rods.
- Ankle Fusion (arthrodesis): Used to treat severe arthritis, this surgery removes the damaged joint surfaces and fuses the bones together with metal hardware.
- Ankle Replacement (arthroplasty): Involves replacing the damaged parts of the ankle with artificial components to preserve motion in the joint.
- Ligament Reconstruction: Repairs or reconstructs torn ligaments to restore stability to the ankle.
- Tendon Repair: Addresses damaged or torn tendons, often involving sutures or grafts.
These procedures aim to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance the quality of life for patients with ankle issues. Recovery times and outcomes vary based on the type of surgery and the individual's overall health.