What it is
A total ankle replacement resurfaces the worn ends of the shin bone (tibia) and ankle bone (talus) with metal components and a durable plastic bearing between them. Think of it as installing a new hinge: the joint keeps its motion, which is the main difference from an ankle fusion.
How Dr. Jones chooses the implant
There is no single best ankle implant, only the best one for your anatomy. Dr. Jones primarily uses Restor3d implants and is also trained and certified in the Stryker and Exactech total ankle systems. The choice depends on your bone quality, alignment and any deformity that has to be corrected at the same time.
Experience
Dr. Jones has performed approximately 150 total ankle replacements and does one to two a month. Ankle replacement is a small field; that kind of steady volume matters.
Who is often a candidate
- Ankle arthritis (wear-and-tear, post-traumatic or inflammatory) that limits daily life
- Pain that has not responded to bracing, injections, activity changes and therapy
- Reasonable bone quality and alignment, or deformity that can be corrected during surgery
- Patients who want to keep ankle motion rather than fuse the joint
Not the right fit for everyone
Active infection, severe nerve damage (neuropathy), very poor bone quality or uncontrolled health conditions can make fusion or another option the safer choice. Dr. Jones will tell you which applies to you.
Common questions
How long does an ankle replacement last?
Modern ankle implants are designed to last many years, but like any joint replacement they can wear or loosen over time. If that happens, revision surgery is an option. Dr. Jones will talk through what to expect for your situation.
Is ankle replacement better than fusion?
Neither is better for everyone. Replacement keeps motion; fusion trades motion for a very durable result. See the comparison page for how the decision is made.
Medically reviewed by Keith W.V. Johnson, MD, FAAOS · Updated September 28, 2026
Educational information, not medical advice. Content pending Dr. Jones's review.