Ankle ligament surgery may be needed when the ligaments in the ankle are torn or overstretched due to injury. The ankle is made up of three joints, and its stability depends on ligaments that connect bone to bone. When these ligaments are severely damaged, surgery may be the only way to restore proper support and function.
Anatomic reconstruction is one option for ankle ligament surgery, involving tightening or repairing the original ligament using tissue from the same area or from a donor. Another method, known as peroneal substitution, replaces the damaged ligament with a nearby tendon. However, this method can sometimes affect long-term function.
Like any surgical procedure, ankle ligament surgery carries certain risks, including infection, nerve injury, bleeding, and delayed healing. Recovery can take up to six months and often includes a period of limited mobility followed by a gradual return to weight-bearing activities.
If you have torn or ruptured an ankle ligament, it is recommended that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for a proper exam and an evaluation of whether surgery is necessary.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is usually reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative treatments fail to resolve the issue. You may need surgery in the following situations:
-
Removing foot deformities such as bunions and bone spurs
-
Severe arthritis that has caused bone or joint problems
-
Cosmetic reconstruction to restore foot shape and alignment
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the underlying condition and severity of the damage. Common types of foot and ankle surgery include:
-
Bunionectomy: A procedure for correcting painful bunions
-
Surgical fusion: Used to realign bones and restore stability
-
Neuropathy decompression surgery: A technique to relieve nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
While surgery is often considered a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical treatments and allow patients to resume normal activities.
Modern surgical techniques have become increasingly advanced. Procedures such as endoscopic surgery use smaller incisions, resulting in less trauma, faster recovery times, and reduced scarring.
Image Suggestion
Alt text: “ankle ligament surgery procedure in Texas”
Suggested image: A diagram of ankle ligament reconstruction.
Contact Dr. Dean Kim for Expert Care
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat stubborn or severe foot and ankle issues. To learn more about ankle ligament surgery and your treatment options, contact Dean Kim, DPM of Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call us at 469-384-2135 or visit our Frisco, TX office. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
