⁠Ankle Replacement

Ankle replacement surgery, also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where damaged parts of the ankle joint are replaced with artificial implants. The ankle joint, located where the shin bone (tibia), calf bone (fibula), and ankle bone (talus) meet, connecting the foot to the lower leg. This joint plays a crucial role for a range of foot movements essential for walking, running and balancing.

Damage to the ankle joint can arise from various causes, such as arthritis, traumatic injury, or age-related wear. It can also be due to a past injury that never fully healed. Patients often experience pain, swelling, or stiffness and limited mobility, which may worsen over time. Doctors assess the damage through imaging tests, like X-rays, MRI scans, and a physical exam to understand the severity and assess the extent of the damage.

In ankle replacement surgery, the damaged joint surfaces are removed, and replaced with artificial components that mimic a natural ankle’s shape and function. The procedure typically requires general anaesthesia but this depends on the nature and duration of the operation. Ankle replacement surgery takes around two hours. The primary goal of ankle replacement is to relieve pain and restore mobility, helping patients regain comfort and stability in everyday movements.

Ankle replacement surgery is ideal for individuals experiencing long-term ankle pain, severe ankle arthritis, or significant joint damage that limits daily activities. This procedure is typically recommended for those who experience chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility despite non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medication, or orthotics.

The best candidates for ankle replacement are often individuals with advanced ankle arthritis and little or no joint misalignment or deformity. It is suitable for individual who require improved ankle stability and movement but do not engage in high-impact sports, like running, as these activities could strain the new joint. Patients in their middle age or older are usually considered better candidates, as they often seek pain relief and moderate activity levels.

Patients with certain conditions, such as weakened ankle ligaments, nerve damage from diabetes, significant bone deformity due to birth defect or trauma, or other medical conditions, may not be ideal for this procedure. A thorough assessment on each case is done based on the level of joint damage and the impact on daily life, aiming to restore function and reduce pain.

Ankle replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged or arthritic ankle joint with an artificial implant to restore pain-free movement and stability. The procedure is generally done under general anaesthesia and can take about 1-2 hours to complete depending on the complexity of the case.

After ankle replacement surgery, patients will be closely monitored in the recovery room for a few hours as the anaesthesia wears off. Once awake and stable, they will be moved to a place where they can rest. Pain management is a key part of post-surgery care with prescribed pain medications to help ease discomfort.

– Patients will need to elevate the foot and keep weight off the ankle for the first few days to reduce swelling.
– A bandage or cast may be applied to keep the joint stable. You might also need to use crutches for several weeks.
– The first few days will focus on rest and pain management, but within a short time, a physical therapist will guide the patient through exercises to regain flexibility and strength.

Most patients are able to leave for home within 1-2 days, though some may require a longer stay depending on their health and recovery progress. Full recovery, including the ability to walk comfortably without assistance, usually takes 2-3 months. However, it’s essential to closely follow the surgeon’s guidelines to prevent complications and ensure optimal healing.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in recovery, with exercises to strengthen the ankle and improve range of motion. Calf raises, gentle ankle rotations, and balance training are commonly recommended to regain strength and flexibility.

Turkey is one of the top destinations for medical tourism, offering a rare combination of world-class healthcare and an exceptional cultural experience.  When it comes to ankle replacement surgery, Turkey offers an array of benefits that may make it the ideal choice for your treatment:

– Renowned medical expertise, with orthopaedic surgeons who are experts in their field and known for their precision and skill.

– State-of-the-art hospitals equipped with the latest technology, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care throughout the process.

– After-care that goes beyond just physical recovery, offering a personalized experience infused with the renowned warmth and hospitality of Turkish culture.

– Highly competitive pricing, making it possible to receive top-tier treatment at a fraction of the cost found in many Western countries.

– A beautiful setting for recovery, with access to physiotherapy packages that support your healing process while you enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Turkey.

– Choosing Turkey for ankle replacement surgery is not just about the medical treatment, it’s about the whole experience, combining high-quality healthcare with a unique opportunity for healing and recovery in a vibrant cultural setting.

When considering ankle replacement surgery abroad, price is often a primary concern. However, it’s important to look beyond just the cost and focus on the quality of care. Turkey has become a sought-after destination for this procedure due to its competitive prices and high standards of medical care. To make the best choice, here are some factors to consider:

– Transparent medical advice that focuses on your needs and not on sales-driven interests.
– Building a strong rapport with the patient to understand their concerns and set realistic expectations.
– A clinic that places the patient’s safety and health as its top priority.