What is it?
Most ankle replacements work well for many years, but some become painful or stop working as they should. This may happen months or years after the original operation.
What causes it?
- Loosening or wear of the implant, or the implant sinking into the bone.
- Bone cysts forming around the implant.
- Infection.
- The ankle or foot being out of alignment, stiffness, or arthritis in the neighbouring joints.
Common symptoms
- Pain returning after a period of doing well.
- Swelling, warmth or a feeling of instability.
- A change in the shape of the ankle, or clicking and grinding.
How is it diagnosed?
Assessment usually includes X-rays and often a CT scan to look at the implant and the surrounding bone. Blood tests, and sometimes a sample of fluid from the joint, are used to check for infection.
Things you can do now
- Keep a record of when the pain started and what makes it worse
- Bring any previous operation notes and X-rays to your appointment
- Avoid high-impact activity until the cause has been found
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include careful monitoring with regular X-rays, a brace or supportive footwear, revision surgery to exchange part or all of the implant, sometimes with bone grafting, converting the replacement to an ankle fusion and treatment of any infection.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Pain, swelling or clicking develops in an ankle replacement that was previously comfortable
- The ankle feels unstable or is changing shape
- The foot becomes hot, red and swollen, or you feel feverish or unwell: seek urgent medical advice the same day
What to expect
There is usually a clear reason why an ankle replacement becomes painful. Once it is found, options range from monitoring and bracing to revising part or all of the replacement, or converting it to a fusion.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about failed or painful ankle replacement in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with failed or painful ankle replacement at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.