Degenerative arthritis of the ankle joint normally develops as a result of a traumatic injury, but can also present after inflammatory joint disease such as rheumatoid arthritis and other rare conditions. Common symptoms are pain, swelling & stiffness interfering with activities. When conservative measures such as activity modification, painkillers & orthotic supports are no longer adaequate, surgery may become necessary. An ankle stiffening operation (fusion or arthrodesis) has been the surgery of choice and can be performed both as an open and as a keyhole procedure. More recently results from modern ankle replacing prostheses have been improving offering this as a suitable alternative for selected patients.
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 Ankle with arthritic damage
 Post-Op (arthrodesis)
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