Ankle Surgery: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Ankle Surgery?
An orthopedic surgeon, a doctor who operates on bones and joints, usually performs ankle surgery. Choices include arthroscopy, fusion, and joint replacement. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Ankle arthroscopy is surgery that uses a tiny camera and surgical tools to examine or repair the tissues inside or around the ankle. Ankle replacement is surgery to replace the damaged bone and cartilage in the ankle joint with artificial parts.
Ankle fusion joins the bones of the ankle together with plates and screws until they grow together.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Arthroscopy can help find the cause of ankle pain. Torn ligaments can be repaired or cleaned up with this type of surgery.
Ankle replacement may be done if the ankle joint is badly damaged. Damage can come from arthritis after an injury or past surgery, or from a bone fracture. It is not generally the best choice for younger, more-active patients.
How to prepare
These steps are common before ankle surgery.
- Tell your surgeon about all medicines, supplements, and herbs you take.
- In the 2 weeks before surgery, you may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or other blood thinners.
- If you smoke, try to stop, because smoking can slow wound and bone healing.
- Ask your surgeon if you need someone to drive you home.
- Follow the instructions about when to stop eating and drinking.
What happens during it
The surgeon puts a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, in through a small cut. A video monitor shows the inside of the ankle.
In ankle replacement, the surgeon makes a cut in the front of the ankle. The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage. Metal parts of the new joint are attached to the cut bone surfaces. A piece of plastic is placed between the two metal parts.
In an ankle fusion, the surgeon takes off the surfaces of the bones hurt by arthritis and joins them with plates and screws until they grow together.
Recovery
After ankle arthroscopy, you can usually go home the same day. You will need a walker or crutches and must keep weight off the foot unless your provider says it is OK. You may need to wear a splint or boot for a few weeks or longer.
After ankle replacement, you will most likely stay in the hospital for at least one night. Your ankle will be in a cast or splint. You most likely will not be able to put any weight on the ankle for a few months. A physical therapist will teach you exercises that help you move more easily.
Risks and side effects
Any surgery and anesthesia can cause problems. They include the following.
- Allergic reactions to medicines
- Breathing problems
- Bleeding, a blood clot, or infection
Ankle arthroscopy can also cause these problems.
- The surgery may not relieve symptoms.
- Tendons, blood vessels, or nerves may be injured.
Ankle replacement can also cause these problems.
- A weak, stiff, or unstable ankle
- The artificial joint may come loose over time
Fusion can bring dramatic pain relief, but it causes loss of up-and-down and side-to-side movement.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
An orthopedic surgeon, a doctor who operates on bones and joints, usually performs ankle surgery. Your surgeon may also send you to a physical therapist to help you regain full use of your ankle.
Common questions
How is arthroscopy different from open surgery?
Arthroscopy uses small cuts, while open surgery uses a large cut. Compared with open surgery, arthroscopy may mean less pain and stiffness, fewer complications, and a faster recovery.
How long does an artificial ankle last?
In most cases, total ankle replacements last 10 or more years. How long yours lasts depends on how active you are, your health, and how much damage your ankle had.
Does ankle fusion keep my ankle moving?
No, fusion causes loss of up-and-down and side-to-side movement of the ankle. Ankle replacement eases pain and keeps more movement than fusion, but not full movement.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Ankle arthroscopy
- MedlinePlus - Ankle replacement
- Arthritis Foundation - Surgery for Ankle Arthritis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
