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Ankle Ligament Reconstruction

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Best Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Surgery in Alwarpet, Chennai

Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect two bones. They are found in the joints and help in holding bones together. The elasticity of a joint and subsequent degree of movement depends on these tissues. While they are extremely strong, ligaments are often subjected to various injuries due to sudden force on the joints. Mostly, they result in a sprain, although they can cause impairment in the tissue in some cases. Some commonly affected joints are the ones in the wrist, fingers, knee, back, or ankle.

What is Ankle Ligament Reconstruction?

Ankle ligament reconstruction is a repair surgery to treat sprains and reinstate the stability of the ankle. Mostly, patients get relief with non-invasive treatments and respond well to conservative medication. In extreme cases, the orthopedist will suggest surgery to realign the ankle ligament and attached bones.

Your orthopedic surgeon will make an incision on the ankle and, with the help of an arthroscope (an instrument to inspect inside joints), identify the damaged ligaments. Depending on whether the ligaments are torn, stretched, or pulled away, the doctor will repair them accordingly.

Who Qualifies for the Procedure?

An overall healthy individual who has faced multiple sprains in the ankle because of high impact physical activity, arthritis, or obesity is the prime candidate for ankle ligament reconstruction. These sprains, if not healed properly, will develop a condition called chronic ankle instability. This causes continuous pain and swelling in the localized region, and affects walking and other similar day-to-day activities.

Additionally, people can develop poor ankle stability issues due to nerve damage, osteochondral defects (characterized by worn-out cartilage or swelling in bones), or historic fracture. They can also undergo this surgery to improve their ankle strength.

Why Is Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Conducted?

  • The surgery is not suggested in the first few incidents of sprained ankles. It is mostly suggested for individuals with compromised ankle stability causing consistent pain, swelling, and issues with walking.
  • Most ligament injuries occur during strenuous physical activities like weightlifting, jumping, or running.
  • Patients with severe arthritis can also develop a condition of ankle instability and require surgery for relief in the long run. Ligament reconstruction surgery is then conducted to avoid chances of serious fractures in the future.

If you think you might be facing similar issues, request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Alwarpet, Chennai by calling 1860 500 2244 They have a team of the best orthopedic doctors in Chennai who will recommend the treatment best suited for you.

Are There Different Types of Ankle Ligament Reconstruction?

Ankle ligament reconstruction surgeries can be performed following two methods:

  • Brostrom-Gould technique – This is primarily used for patients with chronic ankle instability issues. The surgeon will make an incision on either side of the ankle and tie the ligament as per the condition.
  • Tendon transfer – This is used for patients with compromised ligament strength. The surgeon uses tendons – from nearby joints, other body parts, or from a cadaver – instead of the ligament to provide stability to the ankle.

Both the processes are non-invasive and are performed only with a small incision.

Benefits of Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Surgery

Besides the obvious relief from chronic pain, this surgery has some other benefits too, such as:

  • Better mobility and pain-free movement
  • Chances of returning to high impact sports
  • Wider variety of usable footwear
  • Reduction in ankle swelling and discomfort

Risks Associated with the Surgery

Just like any other surgery, ankle ligament reconstruction surgery has some common risks associated with it, that is:

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Infection at the site of surgery
  • Damage to nerves or other adjacent tissues
  • Joint stiffness
  • Recurring ankle instability

Furthermore, it is advisable to wear the cast at all possible times and consult the surgeon before removing it. An untimely removal can aggravate the pain and worsen the situation to some extent.

Reference Links:

https://www.fortiusclinic.com/conditions/ankle-ligament-reconstruction-surgery

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/lateral-ankle-ligament-reconstruction

https://www.joint-surgeon.com/orthopedic-services/foot-and-ankle/ankle-ligament-reconstruction-treats-chronic-ankle-instability

Is there any age restriction for the surgery?

All surgeries are performed after taking multiple factors, such as age, the severity of the issue, other health conditions, etc. into consideration. While there are no age restrictions, your doctor will suggest surgery only when conservative treatment fails to provide any relief in the condition.

Will I recover completely or require subsequent surgeries in the future?

In most cases, patients recover within a few weeks of surgery provided they follow the doctor’s guidelines. Patients with advanced arthritis, obesity issues, or hyperactivity might require follow-up surgery.

What if my ankle continues to hurt even after the surgery?

It is advisable to consult a doctor and get an appropriate diagnosis done to identify the correct cause of pain before the surgery. In addition, you might require physiotherapy sessions during the recovery phase. However, if you continue to experience pain or swelling in the ankle, you must consult your orthopedist immediately.

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