When chronic joint instability due to an ankle ligament tear starts to hinder your daily life, ankle ligament reconstruction surgery could be the solution you are seeking.
In this blog, we will delve into the key aspects of ankle ligament reconstruction, including who needs it, how it works, and what you can expect during the recovery process. Keep reading to find out more.
Who Needs Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Surgery?
The surgery is tailored for individuals who have experienced chronic ankle instability and pain due to torn or stretched ligaments. The following groups typically benefit from this procedure:
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Athletes and Sports Enthusiasts
Ankle ligament reconstruction surgery can treat an ankle ligament tear sustained during sports, helping athletes and enthusiasts regain the stability they need to continue pursuing their passion while reducing the risk of future injuries.
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Patients Who Suffer from Frequent Ankle Sprains and Persistent Instability
If you find yourself constantly spraining your ankle, leading to ongoing instability and discomfort, this procedure may offer the relief you are looking for. Ankle ligament reconstruction can address these issues when more conservative treatments have proven ineffective.
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Patients With Foot Deformities
Foot deformities can contribute to unstable ankles, but individuals with the condition can still benefit from this surgery. In some cases, additional corrective procedures may be recommended by an ankle specialist to address underlying deformities and achieve long-term stability.
How Does the Procedure Work?
Before undergoing ankle ligament reconstruction, a thorough assessment is crucial. This involves physical examinations and imaging tests like MRI to determine the extent of ligament damage. If severe damage is detected, an ankle specialist will usually recommend arthroscopic keyhole surgery.
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Surgical Process
Arthroscopy involves the use of a small, specialised camera which will be inserted through tiny incisions near the ankle joint. This allows the surgeon to have a clear view of the inside of the joint without the need for large incisions.
Learn more: Benefits Of Ankle Arthroscopy
Subsequently, a combination of arthroscopic and keyhole surgical techniques is employed to repair the damaged ligaments. During the procedure, scar tissue is carefully removed, and the torn ligaments are isolated. Using suture anchors, the torn ligaments are anatomically reattached, restoring stability to the ankle.
After the ankle ligament tear is reconstructed, the tiny incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips. These small incisions result in minimal scarring and reduce the risk of infection.
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Recovery Time
The duration of the procedure typically spans around one hour and is carried out under either general anaesthesia or regional block. Here is a breakdown of the recovery timeline which may differ from individual to individual, according to the severity of your ankle ligament tear:
– 1st week: You may start trying to bear weight on the affected leg.
– 2nd week: Crutches may still be necessary and partial weight-bearing can be initiated under the guidance of a physiotherapist. Physical therapy can commence, aiding in the restoration of your ankle’s strength and mobility.
– 3rd month: High-impact activities should be approached cautiously and gradual reintegration is recommended to prevent re-injury. The overall recovery period varies depending on the extent of the surgery but typically ranges from 2 to 3 months.
– 6th month: Return to competitive sports and pivot-intensive activities like squash, basketball, and football usually occur around the 6-month mark.
Step into a Pain-Free Future
At Specialist Orthopaedic Centre, Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal, a foot and ankle specialist in Singapore, is committed to helping you regain stability and get back to the activities you love.
If you are considering undergoing ankle ligament reconstruction surgery, consult our team to find out more.