ANKLE SURGERY
A Step Towards Healing
with Ankle Surgery
A Step Towards Healing
with Ankle Surgery
ANKLE SURGERY Q&A
WHAT IS ANKLE SURGERY?
Ankle surgery is a medical process that involves the treatment of numerous conditions affecting the ankle joint. It includes a broad variety of surgical interventions, from minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures to complex open surgeries. When conservative measures like rest, physical therapy, and medication are ineffective at relieving ankle pain or preventing future damage, ankle surgery is frequently considered.
The recovery process after ankle surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the individual's healing rate and time. Generally, patients can experience some discomfort, bruising, and swelling in the affected area. Crutches or a walker may be required for a period of time to limit weight-bearing on the ankle. Physical therapy is crucial for restoring strength, range of motion, and balance.
Ankle surgery is a valuable sprained ankle treatment option for a wide range of conditions like ankle pain affecting the ankle joint. With advancements in surgical techniques and technology, our team in Nebraska can effectively relieve ankle pain, restore mobility, and improve patients' quality of life.
WHY MIGHT I NEED ANKLE SURGERY? OR WHAT ARE THE INDICATIONS FOR ANKLE SURGERY?
Ankle surgery is a procedure that is performed to treat a range of conditions that affect the ankle joint.
These conditions can include:
- Fractures: Fractures are the most common type of injury that requires ankle surgery. They can occur from a variety of causes including car accidents, sports injuries, falls or any other reason.
- Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes significant pain in the joints and limited mobility. Ankle arthritis can be caused by a variety of factors, including ageing, injury, and overuse. In some cases, ankle surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or to fuse the bones of the ankle together.
- Chronic Ankle Instability: Chronic ankle instability is a condition that repeatedly causes the ankle sprain or roll over. This can happen due to weak ligaments or damaged tendons. In this case, it may be necessary to tighten ligaments, repair tendons, or realign the ankle's bones.
- Deformity: Ankle deformity can occur as a result of a fracture, arthritis, or any other condition. In a few cases, it may become a necessity to correct the deformity and improve the function of the ankle.
The decision of whether or not to have ankle surgery is a difficult one that should be made on a case-by-case basis. Our team of ankle surgeons will consider your age, activity level, overall health, and the severity of your condition when making a recommendation.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY SURGERY?
Preparing for ankle surgery involves several important steps to ensure a smooth and successful surgery experience.
Here are some factors to help you get ready:
- Educate Yourself: Have a thorough understanding of the surgery, including the procedure and expected recovery process. If you have any questions, discuss them with our ankle surgeons.
- Medical Evaluation: Undergo a few medical evaluations to assess your overall health. This may include blood tests, imaging studies, and other preoperative tests to identify any potential risks.
- Follow Preoperative Instructions: Follow any specific instructions provided by your ankle surgeon or healthcare team. This may involve medication adjustments, dietary restrictions, or guidelines on when to stop eating and drinking before the surgery.
- Prepare Your Space: Make your living space comfortable and safe for your recovery. Consider setting up a recovery area with easy access to necessities and arranging for someone to help with your daily tasks.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Purchase any recommended post-surgery supplies already, such as crutches, a knee scooter, or specific dressing materials. Having these items ready at home can make your recovery more convenient and smooth.
- Communicate with Your Support System: Inform friends and family about your upcoming surgery, and discuss potential assistance you may need during the recovery period. Having a strong support system can contribute to a smoother recovery.
- Legal and Administrative Considerations: Address any necessary paperwork, such as insurance documentation and consent forms. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the financial aspects of the surgery.
- Mental Preparation: Mentally prepare for the surgery and the recovery process. Stay positive and maintain open communication with your team of ankle surgeons to address any concerns or anxiety.
By taking these steps, you can contribute to a well-prepared and organised approach to your ankle surgery, enhancing the likelihood of a successful recovery.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING ANKLE SURGERY?
Ankle surgery is a procedure that is performed to treat a variety of conditions that affect the ankle joint. The necessary steps involved in ankle surgery will vary depending on the individual condition being treated.
However, the general steps involved in ankle surgery are as follows:
- Anaesthesia: You will be given anaesthesia to numb the area and to prevent you from feeling pain at the time of the surgery.
- Incision: An incision will be made in the skin over the ankle joint. The surgery being performed will determine the incision's size and location.
- Exposure of the Ankle Joint: The ankle surgeons will carefully dissect the muscles and tendons to expose the ankle joint.
- Repair of the ankle joint: The ankle surgeons will repair the ligaments, damaged bones, tendons, or other tissues in the ankle joint. This may involve using plates, screws, wires, or other surgical elements.
- Closure of the Incision: Sutures, skin glue, or staples will be used to close the incision.
- Dressing: To prevent infection, a dressing will be placed over the incision.
- Recovery: You will be taken to the recovery room, where you will be monitored and cared for a few hours. Once you are stable, you will be discharged from the hospital.
On the day of surgery:
- Shower or bathe. Take a shower or bath the morning of surgery.
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. This is to reduce the risk of aspiration during anaesthesia.
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. You will need to change into a hospital gown before surgery.
- Leave jewelry and valuables at home. Do not bring jewelry or valuables to the hospital.
It's crucial to note that the specific details of ankle surgery can vary based on the type of procedure being performed. Our ankle surgeons will provide you with personalized information about the surgery, including what to expect during and after the surgery procedure. Additionally, they will discuss potential risks and complications related to the surgery.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT WHEN RECOVERING FROM ANKLE SURGERY?
Here are some things you can expect when recovering from ankle surgery:
- Pain: It may be possible that you will likely experience some pain after surgery. This is common and will eventually go away.
- Bruising: You may also experience some bruising after surgery. This is normal and will gradually fade over time.
- Limited Mobility: You will likely have limited mobility after surgery. This is because you must rest your ankle and avoid putting weight on it. You may need to use crutches or a walker.
- Physical Therapy: You will likely need physical therapy after surgery to help you regain strength and mobility in your ankle. Physical therapy can help you improve your range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
- Recovery Time: The recovery time for ankle surgery will vary depending on the procedure being performed. However, most people will be able to return to normal activities within a few weeks.
Remember that recovery experiences can vary from person to person, and our ankle surgeons will provide personalized guidance based on your specific case. Following their instructions and actively participating in your healing will contribute to a successful recovery from ankle surgery.