Advanced Ankle Joint Replacement Surgery in Austin & Leander – Dr. Andrew Ebert, M.D.
If chronic ankle pain and stiffness are affecting your daily life, ankle joint replacement surgery may be the solution you need. Andrew Ebert, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon serving Austin & Leander, specializes in total ankle arthroplasty using advanced techniques to relieve pain and restore mobility. His patient-centered approach ensures every treatment plan is tailored to your condition, lifestyle, and recovery goals.
At our Austin & Leander locations, we provide comprehensive care for ankle arthritis, including precise diagnosis and cutting-edge surgical solutions. Whether your symptoms are caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, injury, or joint degeneration, Dr. Ebert offers expert ankle replacement procedures designed to help you return to an active, pain-free life with improved joint function and stability.
What is Ankle Joint Replacement Surgery?
Ankle joint replacement, also known as total ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pain and immobility due to severe end-stage arthritis that has not responded to non-surgical treatments. The goal of ankle joint replacement surgery is to eliminate your pain and increase the mobility of your ankle joint.
Ankle joint replacement is also recommended for the elderly with a severe fracture from osteoporosis, or presence of a tumor in the ankle joint.
What is Ankle Arthritis?
The ankle joint connects the leg with the foot and provides free movement to the foot. It is formed by connecting the bones of the lower leg, tibia, and fibula, with the talus, or ankle bone.
The surfaces of the ankle bones are covered with articular cartilage. Damage to this leads to a condition called arthritis, which results in pain and impaired movement of the ankle.
Infection, bone fracture, connective tissue disorder, excessive stress, and certain disease conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can cause ankle arthritis.
How is Ankle Arthritis Diagnosed?
Ankle arthritis is diagnosed by your physician after reviewing your history and performing an examination of the symptomatic ankle. Imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the Treatment Options for Ankle Arthritis?
Conservative treatment of ankle arthritis involves oral medications and joint injections. However, if you are unresponsive to these treatments, ankle joint replacement surgery is recommended.
How is an Ankle Joint Replacement Performed?
Ankle joint replacement surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Your surgeon makes an incision over the front of the ankle. The muscles are retracted, and tendons and ligaments moved away to expose the ankle joint. The damaged regions of the tibia, fibula and talus bone are then removed using special instruments, and the remaining healthy bones are reshaped to fit an artificial joint or prosthesis. A bone graft is inserted between the tibia and fibula to create a fusion of the two bones and prevent loosening of the prosthesis. The prosthetics are kept in position with special bone cement and instrumentation such as screws to support the artificial ankle. At the end of the surgery, tendons and other structures are positioned back to cover the new joint. The wound is sutured closed and covered with a sterile dressing.
What is Postoperative Care for an Ankle Joint Replacement?
Following joint replacement, you may need to stay in the hospital for 2-3 days and will be advised on certain precautionary measures to be followed for a successful recovery.
Swelling and discomfort can be managed with prescription medicines, applying ice packs, and by elevating your ankle above heart level while resting.
The treated ankle will be immobilized with the help of splints and bulky dressing. You are advised not to bear weight on your ankle for at least 6 weeks and use crutches for walking. Usually, a drain tube is inserted into the joint during surgery to drain blood from the incision, which is removed within 1-2 days after the surgery. Sutures are removed after 10-15 days, and you should take care that the incision is kept clean and dry.
Andrew Ebert, M.D.
Board-Certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot & ankle care for active patients, athletes, & adults across Austin & Leander.
Andrew Ebert, M.D., is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, providing comprehensive orthopedic care to teens and adults in Austin and Leander Texas, and throughout Travis County.
You will be referred to physical therapy soon after surgery to regain range of motion of the new ankle.
You should avoid smoking, alcohol consumption, and should eat a healthy diet for the best outcome.
What are the Risks and Complications of Ankle Joint Replacement?
As with any major surgery, there are potential risks involved. The possible complications associated with ankle joint replacement include infection, fracture of the tibia or fibula, dislocation of the ankle, damage to nerves or blood vessels, blood clots (DVT or deep venous thrombosis), loosening of artificial components, failure to relieve pain, instability, and stiffness.
Why Choose Dr. Andrew Ebert for Ankle Joint Replacement in Austin & Leander
Choosing the right surgeon for ankle joint replacement is essential for achieving long-term success. Dr. Andrew Ebert is a trusted orthopedic specialist in Austin and Leander known for his expertise in advanced ankle procedures and patient-focused care.
- Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon: Specialized training in foot and ankle reconstruction
- Advanced Surgical Techniques: Expertise in total ankle arthroplasty for improved mobility and durability
- Personalized Care Plans: Tailored treatment strategies based on your condition and lifestyle goals
- Comprehensive Treatment Approach: From diagnosis through rehabilitation and recovery
- Convenient Locations: Accessible care in Austin and Leander
Ankle Joint Replacement FAQs
How long does ankle joint replacement recovery take?
Most patients recover within 3 to 6 months, although full healing and strength improvement may take up to a year.
How long does an ankle replacement last?
Modern ankle implants can last 10–15 years or longer, depending on activity level and overall health.
Am I a candidate for ankle replacement?
Ideal candidates include patients with severe ankle arthritis who have not responded to conservative treatments.
When can I walk after surgery?
Weight-bearing is typically restricted for the first 4–6 weeks, followed by gradual rehabilitation.
Is ankle replacement better than ankle fusion?
Ankle replacement preserves joint motion, whereas fusion eliminates movement but may be recommended in certain cases. Dr. Ebert will guide you on the best option.
Relieve Ankle Pain with Expert Care in Austin & Leander
Don’t let ankle arthritis limit your life. If you are experiencing chronic pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility, schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrew Ebert today. Our Austin and Leander offices offer expert evaluation and advanced ankle joint replacement solutions tailored to your needs.
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Dr. Ebert is committed to helping patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to their normal activities with confidence.
