Is ankle replacement better than fusion?

For ankle replacement, the pros are pain relief, faster recovery time, preservation of motion, more natural motion, and patient satisfaction is often faster than ankle fusion. The main drawback is the finite lifespan of the implants, meaning the components may need to be revised in the future.

What is the success rate of ankle fusion surgery?

In studies ranging in size from 12 to 101 patients, rates of successful primary ankle fusion of 80–100% have been reported earlier. In other studies ranging from 5 to 62 patients, substantial pain relief ranging from 80 to 100% was reported after successful fusion.

Can you move your ankle after ankle fusion?

It’s important to accept that after surgery you’ll won’t have motion in your ankle. You probably won’t be able to run, but you should still be able to go about your day to day activities and participate in many sports like walking, hiking, cycling and golf.

Will ankle fusion eliminate pain?

Ankle fusion (arthrodesis) involves cleaning the worn out ankle joint and fusing the bones together with screws, plates and bone grafts. Ankle fusion relieves pain, but it also limits your ankle’s range of motion, Parekh explained.

How good are ankle replacements now?

Over the last 10 years, ankle arthroplasty has been growing in popularity as the implants available for replacement have improved. Current studies indicate about a 90 percent patient satisfaction rate in the first four years after surgery.

What percentage of ankle fusions fail?

A recent metaanalysis described a nonunion rate of 10%, with 65% of revision surgeries performed on failed ankle fusion being done to treat nonunions [31].

Will I limp after ankle fusion?

Will I walk with a limp after ankle fusion? Ankle fusion will change how you walk. But with proper shoes, most patients do not limp. A fused ankle does not usually result in a fully rigid foot.

How long does an artificial ankle last?

How long do ankle replacement implants last? In 90% of cases, the replacement lasts 10 years. Usually, they will last even longer, but in some cases, the implant may fail in less than 10 years. Ankle replacements can loosen over time.

Can you wear normal shoes after ankle fusion?

6-12 weeks – you will have a cast or boot so you will be able to take some of your weight with crutches if advised by your consultant. 12 weeks onwards – you should be able to take your full weight and wear normal shoes.

Do you have to wear special shoes after ankle fusion?

You should wear comfortable clothes that you can easily change out of. Since you will have a cast on your affected ankle after your surgery, it’s a good idea to have a comfortable shoe to wear on the other foot.

Is ankle replacement better than fusion? For ankle replacement, the pros are pain relief, faster recovery time, preservation of motion, more natural motion, and patient satisfaction is often faster than ankle fusion. The main drawback is the finite lifespan of the implants, meaning the components may need to be revised in the future. What is…