Procedure
Total Ankle Replacement
For Ankle Osteoarthritis
What It Involves
Total ankle replacement (TAR) involves removing the damaged joint surfaces of the ankle and replacing them with a metal and polyethylene implant system. The tibial component is fixed to the shin bone, the talar component to the ankle bone, and a mobile bearing sits between them, allowing smooth, near-normal joint motion. The goal is to eliminate pain while preserving ankle movement.
The procedure is performed through an incision on the front of the ankle under general or regional anaesthesia, typically taking 90–120 minutes, and usually requires 3–5 days in hospital.
Walking, swimming, cycling, and golf are well tolerated long-term; high-impact activities such as running and court sports are generally discouraged to protect implant longevity.
Recovery Timeline
Everyone heals at a different rate — this timeline is a guide.
Weeks 1–2
Non-weight-bearing in a cast, with strict elevation for wound healing. The wound is checked and sutures removed at 2 weeks.
Weeks 2–4
Provided the wound is healing well, transition into a boot and commence weight-bearing from this point.
Weeks 4–6
Continued weight-bearing in the boot ahead of the 6-week X-ray and clinical review.
Weeks 6–12
From around 8–10 weeks, transition into supportive footwear, with physiotherapy for range of motion and strengthening. Most daily activities resume by 3 months.
6–12 months
As this is major joint replacement surgery, full benefit from the implant and complete recovery is expected to take 6–12 months minimum, with a final review and discharge once this is achieved.