Patient Stories

Most people are aware of technology that exists to treat arthritic hip and knee joints, but for people with an arthritic ankle there haven’t been many options. Now, however, technological advancements are making total ankle replacements a successful alternative for patients suffering from ankle osteoarthritis and who want to resume an active lifestyle.

Margie, a 66 year-old Pennsylvania resident, endured several years of pain and suffering before undergoing successful ankle replacement surgery. Margie worked for years in a factory production line where she walked on a hard cement floor, which she believes accelerated the wear-and-tear of her joints. When her children were grown and grandchildren started to arrive, Margie (only in her mid 50s at the time) began to experience discomfort in her ankles. At first the pain didn’t prevent her from doing the things she loved, such as country dancing with her husband, but eventually her arthritic ankles forced her to slow down.

As her arthritis got progressively worse, everyday tasks became increasingly more complicated. Going to the playground with her grandchildren wasn’t as enjoyable as it had been, basic housework was difficult, and grocery shopping was nearly impossible. When the pain in her ankles caused her to sit out some of her favorite line dances, Margie knew she needed to seek treatment. However, medication failed to offer any relief and her limited mobility was becoming increasingly frustrating.

Margie said, “Every aspect of my life was challenging, and I was really starting to get discouraged.” To make matters worse, in order to compensate for pain, her feet began to turn in unnaturally which caused her to walk differently. Margie researched her options, but was not satisfied with what she learned. She spoke with a friend in the medical field who recommended Dr. Benjamin Overly of the Sports Medicine Institute in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. After researching Dr. Overly, including reading several articles about him and learning about different procedure he performs, she sought out his expertise.

Dr. Overly suggested the INBONE^® Total Ankle Replacement from Wright. Although Margie was hesitant to undergo surgery, after discussing it with her family, she decided it was the best course of action for her. On July 10, 2008, she was implanted with her artificial ankle and the results have been beyond her expectations.

Margie awoke from surgery without the sharp arthritic pain in the replaced ankle that she had dealt with for years. As time went by, she began reengaging in everyday activities, such as grocery shopping and basic household chores. While she enjoyed the independence that her ankle replacement gave her, she was most happy doing activities with her grandchildren and country dancing again. However, her right ankle was becoming increasingly painful. Because of the success with the left ankle, she decided to proceed with an INBONE^® Total Ankle Replacement on her right ankle as soon as possible. In February 2009, she underwent an ankle replacement on her right ankle with the same outstanding results. As Margie says, “I enjoy playing with my grandchildren during the day, and I can two-step again at night with my husband. Thanks to my new ankles, I am enjoying every minute of my life.”

Marjorie 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 is designed to rotate effortlessly on the highly polished metal surface of the talar component, allowing for 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.