Total Ankle Replacement (TAR)

Total ankle replacement (TAR), also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is an advanced surgical procedure used to treat severe ankle arthritis and chronic ankle pain. The procedure involves replacing the damaged ankle joint surfaces with specialized implants designed to restore joint motion, improve function, and reduce pain.

Ankle arthritis may develop as a result of previous trauma, fractures, chronic instability, inflammatory arthritis, or long-standing degenerative changes. Patients often experience pain, stiffness, swelling, difficulty walking, and limitations with daily activities.

Your foot and ankle specialist will perform a detailed evaluation, including physical examination and diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, CT scan, or MRI, to determine the extent of joint damage and whether total ankle replacement is an appropriate treatment option. Conservative treatments are typically attempted prior to surgery and may include anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, injections, physical therapy, or custom orthotics.

Total ankle replacement may be considered for patients with:

- End-stage ankle arthritis
- Post-traumatic ankle arthritis
- Rheumatoid or inflammatory arthritis
- Chronic ankle pain and stiffness
- Loss of ankle mobility and function
- Failed conservative treatment options

The goal of total ankle replacement is to preserve ankle motion while relieving pain and improving overall function and quality of life. In certain cases, ankle replacement may be an alternative to ankle fusion procedures.

During your consultation visit, the physician will discuss candidacy for total ankle replacement, surgical expectations, implant options, recovery timeline, rehabilitation, and postoperative care in greater detail.