Ankle Fusion – Arthroscopic Approach
Post Operative Instructions
Cast
You will have a plaster cast on your ankle for 2 weeks following surgery
A walking boot will be worn from 2 to 12 weeks
At 12 weeks, you will wean off the boot and begin walking in a regular shoe
Wound
The surgical incision has been closed with sutures
Do not get the cast or wound wet for the first two weeks. When showering place a bag over the cast and secure with tape to your leg to avoid the cast and wound getting wet
Stitches will be removed at your 2 week appointment
After the stitches are removed, you may begin to shower after 2-3 days
Do not immerse the foot in water (bath, hot tub, pool) for 4 weeks
Do not apply any lotions or creams on the wound for 6 weeks
Weight Bearing
You will be non-weight bearing for the first 6 weeks while in a walking boot. You will be given crutches after surgery (or you may bring your own)
After 6 weeks you may begin fully walking on the foot
Medications
You will be given a prescription for pain medication and Aspirin (blood thinner)
Pain medication should be used regularly for the first 24-48 hours, when required for the first 1 to 2 weeks, followed by Regular Tylenol
Aspirin should be taken for 14 days (unless you have an allergy to aspirin)
Driving
For right foot surgery you are not permitted to drive until you have completely weaned off the boot
For left foot surgery, please contact your insurance company to see if you are permitted to drive
Driving is not permitted while on narcotics
Work
Two weeks off work is recommended for initial recovery
If you are able to get to work safely, and will be seated for the majority of the day, you may return to work a couple days after surgery. This is assuming you are not taking narcotic pain mediation.
From 2-8 weeks sedentary duties is recommended
By 8 weeks you can gradually return to full duties
If your job is physically demanding, return to full duties is usually possible around 12 weeks post operatively
Follow Up
You will have your first appointment 2-3 weeks after surgery in the Fracture Clinic
Your next appointments will be at 6 weeks, 3 months then 6 months post operatively
Recovery
It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain, numbness, or tingling for the first 2 weeks following surgery
Please come to the emergency department if you are suffering from severe pain
You will get back to most of your activities by 6 months
Swelling often remains for 6-12 months
You are expected to experience a FULL recovery (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, etc.) in 9-12 months
Physiotherapy
Two weeks after surgery you will be referred for physiotherapy
