Total Ankle Replacement Center at Artisan Foot and Ankle

There can be limited treatment options when you’re confronted with worn-out joints or advanced ankle arthritis. Fortunately, our foot and ankle specialists in Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo, and San Clemente, CA, can help restore your mobility. Total ankle replacement surgery is one option we offer to improve your ankle health.

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Artisan Foot and Ankle Specialists is excited to offer total ankle replacement as an option for eligible candidates!

What is Total Ankle Replacement?​

Total ankle replacement, also known as ankle arthroplasty, is a surgery that removes damaged bone and cartilage in the joint and replaces them with artificial parts. This procedure helps restore and preserve the ankle joint motion needed to complete everyday activities without pain. Thanks to advances in medical technology, total ankle replacement is more routinely offered as an option for those with severe ankle arthritis or worn-out joints. Patients report having improved functionality and quality of life after recovery.

Who is a Candidate for Total Ankle Replacement?

Total ankle replacement surgery is often used in patients who suffer from severe ankle arthritis or pain. Those who have experienced serious ankle sprains or fractures – or who have limited mobility due to previous unsuccessful surgeries – are also candidates.

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive assessment encompassing medical history, physical examination, radiographic evaluation, and advanced imaging modalities such as CT scans and MRI.

Individuals who suffer from advanced diabetes, compromised bone quality, or circulatory issues are not ideal candidates for total ankle replacement surgery.

One of our board-certified podiatrists can assess your ankle health and determine if total ankle replacement is a viable option for you and your goals.

I take pride in providing total ankle replacement as a treatment option. Total ankle replacement can provide significant pain relief, improve mobility, enhance functionality, and effectively alleviate discomfort. It is truly rewarding for me to assist patients in returning to a more active, pain-free lifestyle.

Dr. Monte Schmalhaus, Artisan Foot and Ankle Specialists
Monte Schmalhaus, DPM

Since 2005, several revolutionary implant designs have successfully been approved by the FDA. These designs have significant advantages, including streamlined placement procedures and enhanced instrumentation accuracy. Noteworthy examples we have used in our clinics include APEX 3DTM, InboneTM, InfinityTM, InvisionTM, CadenceTM, Salto TalarisTM, STARTM, VantageTM, and Zimmer Trabecular MetalTM implants.

FAQs

Total ankle replacement surgery, also known as ankle arthroplasty, involves replacing the damaged surfaces of the ankle joint with prosthetic components. The goal of this procedure is to relieve the patient’s pain and improve their ankle function.
Candidates for ankle replacement typically suffer from severe ankle arthritis or have had previous unsuccessful surgeries and are experiencing significant pain and impaired mobility. Those who suffered from a bad ankle sprain or fracture are also good candidates for ankle replacement surgery.
Full recovery typically takes 6 to 12 months, with most patients returning to normal activities by 3 to 6 months post-surgery. Most patients will be allowed to weight-bear in a boot or cast at 2 to 4 weeks.
Patients are typically non-weight-bearing for 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery in a cast or protective boot. After which, most patients can bear some weight while wearing a boot. Patients typically return to regular shoes in 6 to 8 weeks. Each individual’s specific timeline will be determined with the guidance of your doctor or physical therapist.
Low-impact activities like golf, swimming, cycling, and walking are encouraged. High-impact sports or activities should be discussed with your surgeon; running and jumping are not allowed following this surgery.
Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any signs of infection (Fever, swelling, pus, discoloration, foul odor). You should also call if you have any severe pain, excessive swelling, or any other concerning symptoms.

Why Choose Artisan Foot and Ankle Specialists for
Total Ankle Replacement?

Artisan Foot and Ankle Specialists is excited to offer this innovative treatment option to our patients! Dr. Monte Schmalhaus was trained by world-renowned surgeons specializing in total ankle replacement. He has lectured on total ankle replacements and published research in top textbooks and peer-reviewed journals. As an active member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Dr. Schmalhaus is dedicated to providing the best patient care possible.

While not everyone is a candidate for total ankle replacement, Dr. Schmalhaus proudly offers this treatment when necessary. To find out if a total ankle replacement is right for you, book your appointment today!

Our Experts

Michael L Goddard DPM

Michael L. Goddard, DPM

Dr. Goddard joined California Foot and Ankle Institute in 2012 after ten years of private practice. He was born in Orange, CA, and at the age of 4, moved to Solvang, CA, which he refers to as his home town.
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Monte Schmalhaus, DPM

Monte Schmalhaus, DPM, AACFAS

Monte Schmalhaus, DPM offers advanced patient-focused foot and ankle care at Artisan Foot and Ankle Specialists.
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