Almost everyone is aware of key implant options that exist to replace a person’s arthritic hips and knees, but patients suffering
from ankle osteoarthritis didn’t have many options until recently. However, technological advancements are changing the way this condition
is treated, which makes Tim, a 55-year-old golf course superintendent, thankful.
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Tim was always an active person. In high school, he played basketball, baseball, golf and continued actively playing both basketball and
softball into his 40’s. He also spent much of his free time running local road races and coaching basketball. However, at age 41 he started
to experience discomfort in the ankle he injured as a teenager. Gradually, the pain became more intense and prevented him from fully
participating in all of the activities he enjoyed.
Tim underwent a surgical procedure in January of 2005 on his ankle joint with the hope that it would relieve the pain he was experiencing
each day. Although he felt some initial relief, the pain and swelling in his ankle came back with greater intensity. When he sat down for an
extended period of time, he found it difficult to stand. He was forced to give up coaching because he couldn’t stand for prolonged periods of
time or run up and down the sidelines. His running career hit an abrupt end and he couldn’t even walk the golf course any longer. In fact, he
began walking with a limp and simple everyday tasks, such as getting the mail, were becoming increasingly difficult.
Each day Tim grew more frustrated by his inability to lead an active full life. Although he was undergoing physical therapy, it wasn’t enough.
He began researching options to treat ankle osteoarthritis and learned about the cutting edge technology that Dr. Stephen Brigido used to treat patients.
After examining his ankle, Dr. Brigido suggested that Tim consider an INBONE® Total Ankle Replacement. Tim didn’t realize that
artificial ankles existed and had the potential to relieve him of his pain. After some consideration, Tim decided to proceed with the ankle replacement
in April of 2008. The results have been outstanding, in Tim’s opinion.
Shortly after surgery, Tim began physical therapy and the mild post-operative pain quickly subsided. Within several weeks he was walking with
the assistance of an orthopedic boot. Each day he felt his ankle getting stronger and he gradually began re-engaging in his favorite hobbies.
Tim said, “It is amazing how much better I feel without the throbbing pain in my ankle. I had forgotten what it was like to enjoy recreational
activities without pain.”
Today, Tim is able to walk and play golf and no longer struggles to walk the golf course where he works. Everyday tasks are no longer as
challenging and he no longer walks with a limp. Tim is thrilled with his artificial ankle and is grateful to be able to enjoy his hobbies once again.
Tim 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.