One of the most advanced solutions for people suffering from severe ankle joint problems is the implantation of ankle prostheses, an alternative technique to conventional surgery and conservative treatments. This surgical procedure not only relieves chronic pain, but also allows patients to regain mobility and significantly improve their quality of life. The Traumatology Service at Hospiten Estepona, through Dr. José Mª Crespo, has incorporated this technique, which is highly demanding and recommended for complex cases in which even conventional surgery has previously failed.
"This technique is a difficult type of surgery, technically speaking, with very clear indications, which requires training and certain surgical skills to be carried out," according to Dr. Crespo.
On the Costa del Sol, Hospiten Estepona is a leader in this type of surgery, considered a very complex procedure and recommended for specific cases, such as young, active patients or those with ankle problems and advanced osteoarthritis. In fact, Dr. Crespo has performed a bilateral double prosthesis implant of both ankles, the result of which has been satisfactory. "I recently performed this type of intervention on a patient under 60 years of age, and she is now pain-free and has even resumed her hobby of riding horses," Dr. Crespo pointed out.
The ankle is one of the most complex and vital joints in the human body, supporting the weight of the body and allowing a wide range of movement. However, conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and traumatic injuries can cause significant damage to this joint, resulting in constant pain and reduced mobility. The conventional technique consists of an ankle fixation, but in the end, patients do not manage to control the pain and require conservative treatments such as infiltrations, among others. In these cases, a joint replacement is proposed to improve pain in this area while maintaining mobility.
"This means that they have an anatomically different ankle, but one that allows them to lead a normal life without the sequelae produced by ankle fixation," added Dr. Crespo.
As medical technology advances, bilateral prosthetic ankle implants are becoming more common, offering hope to those who have exhausted other treatment options. "Since we are the only hospital center on the Costa del Sol that performs this type of surgical technique, it is already in demand by other patients," commented Dr. Crespo.
The reason why other hospitals have not incorporated this technique is due to its high complexity and it is only recommended in very specific cases.
This article is an English translation generated with Al from the original Spanish content. While we review content for clarity, the information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment.