Ankle surgery may be required to correct a serious deformity of the
ankle and its bone structure. Injury (such as a fracture), birth
defects, or changes throughout the course of life are the usual
culprits. Diseases, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and
neuromuscular conditions, may cause severe foot and ankle
deformities that, over time, cause pain and difficulty in
walking.
Ankle surgeries emphasize the realignment of the structure either
around or after removal of the deformity. Various kinds of internal
and external fixation devices—some temporary, others permanent—are
often required to maintain the appropriate alignment during, and
beyond, the healing process.
Ankle surgeries vary in complexity, length, and severity, yet many
of them today are conducted on a same-day, outpatient basis.
Patients need to arrange for another person to take them home
afterwards and stay with them for the first 24 hours following the
surgery. Post-operative instructions, provided by your surgeon,
will give you the information needed to care for your recovering
ankle following surgery.