Total Ankle Replacement in Portland, ME
Chronic ankle pain and stiffness can limit mobility, disrupt daily routines, and make weight-bearing activities difficult. Maine Foot and Ankle Specialists in Portland, ME, provides comprehensive evaluation and surgical care for patients whose ankle arthritis no longer responds to conservative treatment. Total ankle replacement offers a motion-preserving option for select patients with advanced joint damage.
What Total Ankle Replacement Treats
Total ankle replacement addresses end-stage ankle arthritis, a condition marked by cartilage loss, joint space narrowing, and painful bone-on-bone contact. Patients often experience persistent swelling, reduced range of motion, and pain that worsens with standing or walking. Arthritis may develop from prior injury, long-term instability, inflammatory disease, or age-related degeneration. When pain persists despite bracing, medication, injections, and physical therapy, surgical intervention may become appropriate.
When Total Ankle Replacement Is a Good Option
Total ankle replacement works best for patients who want pain relief while preserving joint motion. Candidates typically have severe arthritis, stable ligaments, adequate bone quality, and realistic activity goals. The procedure replaces damaged joint surfaces with implants that restore alignment and allow smoother movement. Maintaining motion can improve gait mechanics and reduce stress on surrounding joints compared to fusion in carefully selected patients.
When Total Ankle Replacement Is Not Recommended
Not every patient with ankle arthritis benefits from total ankle replacement. Significant deformity, poor bone quality, active infection, severe neuropathy, or high-impact activity demands may make the procedure unsuitable. In these cases, alternative treatments such as ankle fusion or continued non-surgical care may provide better outcomes. Proper patient selection plays a critical role in long-term success.
How We Evaluate the Need for Surgery
We begin with a detailed clinical history, physical examination, and gait assessment to understand pain patterns and functional limitations. Imaging studies, including weight-bearing X-rays and advanced imaging such as bilateral lower CT scan with 3D reconstruction when needed, help us assess joint alignment, bone integrity, and arthritis severity. We also evaluate ligament stability and overall foot mechanics. This thorough process allows us to determine whether total ankle replacement offers the best balance of pain relief, function, and durability for each patient.
The Goals and Recovery Process
The goal of total ankle replacement centers on reducing pain, improving mobility, and supporting daily activity. Recovery involves a structured rehabilitation plan that protects the implant while restoring strength and range of motion. Adherence to post-operative guidelines supports long-term implant performance and functional improvement.
Schedule an Ankle Evaluation
If ankle arthritis limits your mobility and conservative treatments no longer help, a surgical evaluation can clarify your options. Maine Foot and Ankle Specialists in Portland, ME provides individualized assessment for total ankle replacement and alternative treatments. Call (207) 910-5454 to schedule an appointment and discuss whether total ankle replacement fits your needs.