Total Ankle Replacement
New Jersey patients with severe ankle arthritis now have an alternative to fusion. Essex Union Podiatry performs total ankle replacement surgery to restore natural joint motion, reduce chronic pain, and return patients to the activities they thought they had lost.
Schedule your total ankle replacement consultation in New Jersey →
What Is Total Ankle Replacement?
Total ankle replacement, also called ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes a damaged ankle joint and replaces it with an artificial implant made of metal and medical-grade plastic components.
The implant replicates the natural gliding motion of the ankle, allowing the joint to flex and extend without bone-on-bone friction.
Unlike ankle fusion, which locks the joint in a fixed position, total ankle replacement preserves range of motion. Essex Union Podiatry offers this advanced procedure to patients across New Jersey who have exhausted conservative treatments without adequate relief.
Candidates typically present with end-stage ankle arthritis, post-traumatic joint damage, or failed previous ankle surgeries. Your podiatrist evaluates imaging, medical history, and activity goals before recommending replacement over other surgical options.
Conditions That May Require Total Ankle Replacement
End-Stage Ankle Arthritis
Cartilage loss exposes bone surfaces within the ankle joint. Walking becomes painful at every step. Total ankle replacement removes the damaged surfaces and restores a smooth, cushioned joint.
Post-Traumatic Ankle Arthritis
A prior fracture or severe sprain can trigger progressive joint degeneration years after the original injury healed. Replacement addresses the structural damage that conservative care cannot reverse.
Failed Previous Ankle Treatments
Patients who have tried bracing, injections, physical therapy, and medication without lasting improvement may qualify for ankle arthroplasty. Essex Union Podiatry evaluates each case to determine whether replacement provides a better outcome than continued conservative management.
Severe Ankle Joint Damage
Chronic inflammatory conditions can erode ankle cartilage and deform the joint. Replacement restores alignment and distributes weight evenly across the new implant surface.
Our Total Ankle Replacement Process
Comprehensive Evaluation
Dr. Galante reviews your medical history, performs a physical examination, and orders advanced imaging including X-rays and CT scans. These images map the exact dimensions of your ankle joint and guide implant selection.
Surgical Planning and Preparation
Your surgeon selects an implant sized precisely to your anatomy. Essex Union Podiatry uses preoperative planning software to position components for optimal alignment. You receive clear instructions on pre-surgery preparation, including medication adjustments and fasting guidelines.
The Replacement Procedure
Through a carefully placed incision, your surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage surfaces, shapes the remaining bone, and secures the implant components. The procedure typically takes two to three hours under general or regional anesthesia.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Initial recovery involves a period of non-weight-bearing followed by progressive loading guided by your surgeon. Physical therapy restores strength and range of motion. Most patients return to daily activities within three to four months and reach maximum improvement by one year.
Benefits of Total Ankle Replacement
Preserved Joint Motion
Ankle fusion eliminates movement at the joint. Total ankle replacement maintains the natural flex-and-extend motion that matters for walking on uneven ground, climbing stairs, and maintaining a normal gait pattern. Essex Union Podiatry patients regain mobility that fusion cannot provide.
Reduced Pain Without Sacrificing Function
The artificial joint eliminates bone-on-bone contact, the primary source of arthritic ankle pain. Patients report significant pain reduction while retaining the ability to walk, drive, and exercise. That combination of pain relief and preserved function is what makes replacement a preferred option for active patients.
Protection of Adjacent Joints
Ankle fusion transfers stress to the joints above and below the fused segment. Over time, those neighboring joints can develop arthritis from the added load. Total ankle replacement distributes forces more naturally, reducing the risk of secondary joint problems.
Why Choose Essex Union Podiatry for Ankle Replacement
Surgical Expertise Built Over Three Decades
Dr. Jason P. Galante, DPM, FACFAS, FABPM, brings double board certification and training alongside NFL team physicians to every surgical case. His experience spans thousands of foot and ankle procedures, from fracture repair to complex joint reconstruction.
A Practice That Prioritizes Conservative Care First
Essex Union Podiatry does not recommend surgery when nonsurgical options remain viable. If bracing, injections, or therapy can reduce your pain and improve your function, your doctor will pursue those paths before discussing replacement.
Surgery enters the conversation only after conservative measures have been given a fair trial.
Four Convenient New Jersey Locations
Pre-operative consultations and post-surgical follow-ups are available at our Rahway, Caldwell, Springfield, and Jersey City offices. Find your nearest office to begin the process close to home.
Common Questions About Total Ankle Replacement
How long does a total ankle replacement last?
Modern implants are designed to function for 10 to 20 years depending on patient activity level, body weight, and adherence to follow-up care. Essex Union Podiatry monitors implant performance through regular imaging at scheduled post-operative visits.
Am I a candidate for ankle replacement instead of fusion?
Candidates typically have sufficient bone density, adequate blood supply, and realistic activity expectations. Your podiatrist at Essex Union Podiatry assesses these factors through imaging and physical examination during your consultation.
What is the recovery timeline?
Most patients spend two to four weeks non-weight-bearing, followed by gradual return to walking in a protective boot. Physical therapy begins within the first few weeks. Full recovery and maximum improvement typically occur within 12 months.
Does insurance cover total ankle replacement?
Most insurance plans cover ankle replacement surgery when medical necessity is documented. Our New Jersey offices verify your coverage and provide cost estimates before scheduling your procedure.
What Our Patients Say About Surgical Care at Essex Union Podiatry
Dr. Galante is an absolute rockstar. He's knowledgeable, thorough, and explained everything in a way that actually made sense.
Julietta Gonzalez
He did surgery on my foot, and it all went smoothly. At post-op visit, he answered my questions with patience and gave me a clear instruction for caring my foot at a later time.
Patient Review
Dr. Galante is an excellent care provider, a skilled surgeon.
Hong Ma
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Ankle Movement
Your ankle pain does not have to define your daily routine. Schedule your total ankle replacement consultation with Essex Union Podiatry at any of our four New Jersey locations.
Learn about our foot and ankle surgery program or meet Dr. Galante to learn more about our surgical expertise.