Ankle... Again

[Greedyfly]

Hello guys,

I was wondering if anyone had any knowledge about ankle joint replacement and whether it is something we do here in the UK?

I have been researching ankle fusion (it has been suggested to me) and it terrifies me to be honest - surely there must be a better option?

Anyone out there who can advise before I see the ortho surgeon again?

[Sqad]

Difficult question Greedfly.........

The indications for ankle replacement (ankle arthroplasty) and ankle fusion ( ankle arthrodesis) are quite different and you have not given any particulars of your disease process or symptoms (although i would guess that pain would be at the top of the list.

Bur here are a few comments:

For the relief of pain........both operations are equal.

For mobility.........it depends upon arthritis in the joint below (subtalar joint)

How long will it last...........an arthrodesis will last longer than a replacement.

Sorry this has been a little "bitty" but i am not an Orthopod.

The only alternative to operation is analgesics (pain killers)

[Greedyfly]

Pain is the problem singular really. Had several surgeries all without pain reducing success and now it has been suggested my only option is fusion which I know little about and from what I have read about doesn't sound like a fun option at all considering how young I am. I have been googling (dangerous I know) about ankle fusion and ankle implants came up alot from mostly U.S sites and wondered what these are and who woudl benefit from one. Is it a better option than fusion? Currently I have arthritis which has come on quite soon after injury as expected. I have no other diagnosis for pain after MRI's, Ultrasounds and various arthroscopies so I think we have all given up really on trying to find the root of the problem. As for pain killers it is unfortunately a no go as we cannot find anything that works and doesn't make my life more miserable than the pain.

The reason I asked Sqad is because it has never been mentioned to me as an option before and I wondered if it was due to ineligibilty, cost or the fact we just don't do it here in the UK.

Thanks for your help

[Sqad]

Well, whichever you choice, it will be the" last throw of the dice" so be absolutely certain that you cannot stand the pain any longer. Arthrodesis is certainly available in the UK and i am sure that arthroplasty is also, my choice would be the former in your case.

Like any specialised opertion......pick your surgeon and unit carefully.

[Greedyfly]

Thanks Sqad