Most people are aware that the know-how exists to replace arthritic hips and knees, but patients suffering from arthritic
ankles haven’t had many options until recently. However, technological advancements are making ankle replacements a successful
treatment for some patients, including Harry, a 68-year-old resident of South Bend, who endured decades of pain and suffering.
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Approximately 20 years ago, Harry suffered a compound fracture in his ankle and leg after falling off a roof. Initially, his
injuries healed and he resumed his quality-of-life, which included football games at neighboring Notre Dame and playing golf
regularly with his sons. However, arthritis began to set in and eventually Harry began slowing down.
As Harry’s arthritis got progressively worse, he developed a limp and found that golfing with his two sons was enormously difficult.
If he played nine holes, he needed to elevate and ice his ankle for two days. Attending football games was no longer an option because
he couldn’t climb the stairs of the stadium. Ibuprofen and aspirin did nothing to alleviate the constant pain and his immobility led to
a 35 pound weight gain. When he could no longer enjoy golfing and began waking with the pain, he knew he had to find a better solution.
Harry sought the help of several physicians. One suggested fusing his ankle, but Harry wasn’t quite ready to undergo a procedure that
would leave him with a permanent limp. Then he met with Dr. Jeff Niespodziany who, after examining his ankle, suggested an INBONE®
Total Ankle Replacement from Wright. Harry discussed it with his family, who encouraged him to undergo the procedure. Figuring the only thing
he had to lose was the pain, Harry scheduled surgery for September 11, 2009 and the results, according to Harry, have been great.
Harry woke from the operation without the constant arthritic throbbing in his ankle. As he says, “I forgot what life was like without the
pain.” After several days in the hospital, he was released and began his physical therapy regimen. Each day he feels his ankle getting stronger
and he has begun re-engaging in his hobbies. Now, instead of watching the Notre Dame football game on television, he is attending with his family.
However, he is really looking forward to teeing off this spring with his sons at the local golf course. “I am so thrilled to have my life back,”
he said. “My ankle replacement is allowing me to live out the retirement of my dreams!”
Harry was treated with an INBONE® Total Ankle Replacement. Until recently, there were limited options for ankle replacement in
the U.S. The INBONE® Total Ankle began as a leading foot and ankle surgeon’s quest to provide a viable surgical solution to ankle
arthritis patients for pain reduction and restored mobility. The INBONE® ankle team carefully studied previous ankle designs to
determine the causes of implant failure. With that knowledge in hand, and using design elements already proven successful in hip and knee implants,
INBONE® ankle engineers designed a total ankle replacement intended to stand the test of time.
The prosthesis consists of two main pieces: a tibial component and a talar component. The tibial component features a high strength
polyethylene piece secured within a titanium holder. A long titanium stem securely anchors this half of the implant within the tibia. The talar component
is an anatomically shaped, highly polished cobalt chrome piece which also features a stem. The talar stem is inserted into the talus (ankle bone) to
securely anchor this half of the implant. Once installed, the smooth plastic surface of the tibial component rotates effortlessly on the highly polished
metal surface of the talar component, resulting in smooth, fluid movement.
These results are specific to this individual only. Individual results and activity levels after surgery vary and depend on many factors including
age, weight and prior activity level. There are risks and recovery times associated with surgery and there are certain individuals who should not
undergo surgery.
Only a physician can tell you if this product and associated procedure are right for you and your unique circumstances. Please consult with a
physician for complete information regarding benefits, risks and possible outcomes.