Walking, running, and even standing rely heavily on healthy ankle joints. When severe arthritis or injury damages the ankle, patients may experience constant pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. For individuals in Malaysia facing end-stage ankle arthritis, ankle arthroplasty (total ankle replacement) offers a long-term solution that restores mobility and reduces pain.
Unlike ankle fusion, which locks the joint and limits flexibility, ankle arthroplasty preserves natural movement by replacing the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant. This makes it an ideal choice for patients who wish to maintain an active lifestyle.
Ankle arthroplasty is a surgical procedure where the damaged portions of the ankle joint are replaced with artificial components. These prosthetic implants mimic the natural joint, allowing smooth motion and weight-bearing.
The procedure is most often recommended for:
Several conditions can lead to the need for ankle arthroplasty:
If these symptoms affect your daily life, ankle arthroplasty may be the best solution.
While both ankle arthroplasty and ankle fusion are common treatments for severe arthritis, arthroplasty provides key advantages:
👉 Learn more about other procedures on our Ankle Surgery Malaysia pillar page.
An incision is made at the front of the ankle.
Damaged cartilage and bone are removed.
Artificial implants (metal and high-grade plastic) are placed.
The joint is aligned and secured.
The surgery usually takes 2–3 hours under spinal or general anesthesia.
Like any major surgery, ankle arthroplasty carries some risks:
Our orthopedic surgeon uses advanced techniques and strict protocols to minimize these risks.
Studies show that modern ankle implants can last 10–15 years or more, providing long-term pain relief and restored mobility. Most patients experience:
Some patients may not qualify for ankle replacement surgery, including those with:
In such cases, alternative treatments such as ankle fusion may be recommended.
Before considering surgery, non-surgical options may be explored:
If these fail, ankle arthroplasty becomes the best option for long-term results.
Modern implants typically last 10–15 years, depending on activity levels and patient health.10 0
Post-surgery discomfort is expected but managed with pain medication and physiotherapy.
Most patients return to walking and low-impact activities. High-impact sports are generally discouraged.
Costs vary depending on the hospital, implant type, and specialist fees. A detailed quotation will be provided during consultation.
Fusion eliminates movement by joining bones, while arthroplasty preserves natural ankle motion.
If chronic ankle arthritis is limiting your life, ankle arthroplasty may be the right choice. Book a consultation with our ankle specialist today to discuss your treatment options.
Learn more about ATFL Ligament Reconstruction in Malaysia
Explore Haglund’s Deformity Correction in Malaysia
Return to Ankle Surgery Malaysia for a full overview of treatments.