Ankle Replacement
Medical Center
Orthopedics and Rehabilitation Center
Need More Information?
For more information on ankle replacement surgery, give us a call.
If you suffer from ankle pain such as arthritis, you may be a candidate for ankle replacement surgery.
Ankle Replacement Surgery: Our Approach
At the University of Vermont Medical Center our expert orthopedic surgeons perform STAR Ankle Replacement for patients suffering from ankle pain such as arthritis.
STAR (Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement) surgery is a procedure designed to help relieve ankle pain while still allowing you to move your ankle normally. It is a three component design that mimics the joint mechanics of your ankle allowing you to perform daily low-impact activities with normal body motion, such as walking or hiking.
The STAR ankle is made up of three parts. The first part covers the lower bone of the ankle joint, and the second part covers the bottom of the shin bone, or tibia. Both of these parts that cover the bones are made up of a combination of metals called cobalt chromium alloy. These parts are coated with pure titanium in the places where they touch the bone. The third part of the ankle is called a Mobile Bearing and is placed between the two metal parts. This part is made out of medical grade plastic called polyethylene (the same used in hip and knee replacements) and is designed to move in between the metal parts as you move your ankle.
WCAX: Patients Now Have Access to Ankle Replacement Surgery at the UVM Medical Center.
Conditions Treated by STAR Ankle Replacement
STAR is intended to treat older patients that have the following conditions:
- Ankle Arthritis
- Painful ankle joints due to osteoarthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Ankle Replacement Surgery: Am I a Candidate?
Not everyone is a candidate for STAR ankle replacement surgery. The surgery is designed for people in their 50s through 70's who suffer from arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis and perform lower impact activities.
To find out if you're a candidate contact your primary care provider.
Related Treatments
Other treatments for ankle pain include:
- Ankle Fusion Surgery - is a procedure where the worn out joint surfaces are removed and the ankle bones are then held together with metal implants. The bone surfaces then heal in this position. The joint remains stiff after the ankle fusion, but the goal of surgery is to allow for a pain-free joint. This surgery is designed for younger, more athletic people who are more active on their feet.
- Cortisone - a chemical that reduces swelling of the ankle joint is injected into the area of swelling.
For Medical Professionals
Patients must be referred through their doctor. To refer a patient visit referring providers or call us at 888-362-3242.