Ankle & hindfoot
Total ankle replacement
Information about replacing an arthritic ankle, preserving movement and the possibility of future revision.
Understanding the condition
A total ankle replacement treats a painful arthritic ankle by resurfacing the tibia and talus. It aims to preserve useful movement, rather than create a normal ankle. Examination and imaging assess alignment, bone quality and the surrounding joints.
Treatment options
Footwear adaptations, a brace, walking aids, physiotherapy, appropriate medication and injections may help. Ankle fusion is the main surgical alternative. Replacement suitability depends on activity goals, deformity, soft tissues, circulation and other health factors.
What a procedure may involve
Damaged surfaces are replaced with metal components and a plastic bearing. Additional procedures may be needed to correct alignment or balance the foot. Your surgeon will explain the implant and any associated bone or tendon work; anaesthetic choices are discussed separately.
Risks and benefits to discuss
Potential benefits are less pain and improved walking while maintaining some ankle motion. Risks include wound breakdown, infection, nerve injury, fracture, persistent pain, stiffness, blood clots and implant loosening or wear. A failed replacement may require another replacement or fusion. The implant is not guaranteed to last for life.
Any operation also carries bleeding and anaesthetic risks. Occasionally, complex regional pain syndrome causes prolonged pain and sensitivity. Your health and the extent of surgery change your personal risk.
Rehabilitation and aftercare
The ankle is initially protected. Keep dressings dry and elevate to control swelling. Walking aids, boot or cast use and movement exercises follow your individual plan. Bone correction or wound problems can change the schedule. Attend both early reviews and longer-term implant surveillance.
Expected outcomes and recovery
Recovery develops over many months; improvement can continue towards a year. Low-impact activity is generally preferred. Pain relief does not guarantee substantially increased movement. Work and driving depend on function, safe vehicle control and clinical advice.
When to seek urgent help
Seek prompt advice for rapidly increasing pain, spreading redness, wound discharge, fever, new numbness or a cast or boot causing pressure. New calf pain or swelling needs urgent assessment. Chest pain or breathlessness needs emergency help: call 999.
Your consent discussion
Ask which treatment best addresses your symptoms, what alternatives are reasonable, what the main risks mean for you, and what recovery will involve at home and work. This guide supports that discussion; consent is completed with your treating team. Your individual written instructions take priority.
Your consent discussion
Use the patient pack to record your priorities, the proposed procedure, its alternatives, the benefits you hope for and risks that matter to you. A clinician will discuss your individual circumstances and complete the appropriate hospital consent process with you.
Reading or downloading a guide does not give consent. You can ask further questions, decline treatment or change your mind before the procedure.
Further reading & sources
Prepared 10 October 2026 for the practice of Mr Peyman Bakhshayesh. Professional background. General patient education; your clinical assessment and written instructions determine your care.
Private care in Huddersfield
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