What happens after a total ankle replacement surgery?

Following ankle replacement surgery, patients usually spend 2-3 nights in hospital until the pain has reduced and can walk safely on crutches or a walker. For the first 2 weeks patients are advised not to bear weight on the leg. At 2 weeks after surgery, the splint and sutures are removed and the patient is placed into a removable walking boot. The patient is allowed to weight bear at that time and may recommence swimming and riding an exercise bike. At 6 weeks after surgery, the patient may be weaned off the walking boot and transitioned into a regular shoe.

By 3 months most patients move relatively well over medium distances, but as with most major operations the final recovery can take up to 12 months. Every patient’s recovery is individual and depends on the severity of the injury and the complexity of the surgery.