A total ankle replacement with out metal implants

Daniel Lee with the bio ankle

Patients with acute arthritis can avail total ankle replacement that offers greater mobility and pain relief without permanent metal implants. Pioneered by Daniel K. Lee, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., at UC San Diego Medical Center, this technique is the first in the U.S to offer arthritis sufferers a non-metal, biological ankle replacement.

“Now there is an option that actually restores the ankle with an FDA-approved biologic material that is similar to the collagen found in cartilage.” Said lee.

During a two hour minimally-invasive surgical procedure, Lee, an ankle surgeon, removes the damaged cartilage around the ankle joint through a four centimeter incision. The collagen material is then molded into the joint where it adapts to the contour of the patient’s ankle.

“Unlike a metal device, this material can be customized in size and contour for every patient’s individual need,” said Lee. “No matter how the patient’s ankle is shaped, the collagen is a perfect fit.”

To allow the material to integrate fully with the ankle joint, a temporary external device is used to stabilize the joint area while keeping it “distracted” or open for a period of 4-6 weeks. Attached by small pins, the cylinder-shaped device serves as a shock system to keep the joint free from friction and movement until healing is complete. The device is then removed entirely, which keeps the patient’s ankle free from any metal parts.

“Within 3 weeks after surgery, we see an incorporation of tissue onto the damaged cartilage,” said Lee. “The idea here is to avoid fusion of the ankle and to add longevity to the joint. We want to give patients as much mobility as possible so they can get back to the activities they love the most.”