Ankle FAQs - South Mountain Orthopaedic

Frequently Asked Questions About
Ankle Replacement Surgery

WHY HAVE AN ANKLE REPLACEMENT INSTEAD OF A FUSION?

	Ankle fusion vs. ankle replacement
	Reasons why most patients have the ankle replacement surgery
	Why hasn’t my doctor recommended an ankle replacement?

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR REPLACEMENT SURGERY?

	Who is a candidate for a joint replacement surgery?
	Am I too young (or too old)?
	How can I find out if I am a candidate?
	What shall I expect when I have my ankle evaluation by Dr. Buechel or one of our surgeons?

HOW SUCCESSFUL IS TOTAL ANKLE REPLACEMENT?

What is the success of surgery and longevity of the implant itself?

What are the causes for possible failure?

What are the major differences between your state-of-the-art total ankle replacement and other devices on the market?

How long has Dr. Buechel been involved in total ankle replacements?

How reliable is the information that is contained on other websites?

HOW CONVENIENT IS IT TO HAVE SURGERY IN NEW JERSEY BY DR. BUECHEL ?

Surgery in New Jersey

WHAT IS THE SURGICAL PROCEDURE LIKE?

	How long will I be in the hospital and what is involved?
	How much bone is resected (removed)?
	Will there be any changes in my leg length?
	Is bone graft used during surgery?
	I s there any harm in postponing my surgery?
	Is this surgery covered by insurance?
	What is the cost?

RECOVERY AND AFTER CARE?

	Immediately after surgery
	Eight to ten days after surgery
	Six weeks after surgery
	What is the expected disability period?
	What do out-of-state patients need to know?
	Is Physical Therapy required after surgery?
	Activities after surgery
	Can I wear high heels again?

South Mountain Orthopaedic Associates
61 First Street - South Orange, NJ 07079 - 973-762-8344