According to the CDC, more than 1 in 5 Americans experienced chronic pain in 2021. If you or someone you love has issues with foot or ankle pain, you’ll know how limiting this condition can be. Tasks that were once simple become very difficult, impacting the patient’s overall quality of life.

Ankle fusion surgery can bring a new lease of life to those who need it most. But what happens when this procedure goes wrong?

Read on to learn about 3 symptoms of failed ankle fusion surgery.

1. Lingering Pain

Persistent ankle pain is a clear sign of a failed ankle fusion surgery. While some discomfort is expected during the recovery period, lingering pain beyond the norm should raise concerns.

Talk to your orthopedic surgeon to get a reasonable timeline for your recovery. If the pain persists beyond the expected duration, seek further advice. This could signify incomplete fusion or other complications.

2. Limited Range of Motion

A successful ankle fusion surgery aims to restore the natural range of motion to the joint. When patients experience a restricted range of motion post-surgery, it points to potential failure.

This limitation may hinder daily activities and impact your overall quality of life. Recognizing and addressing this issue promptly is crucial to achieving the intended benefits of the surgery.

Physical therapies and aftercare plans can help the healing process, improving your range of motion and reducing the risk of further ankle problems.

3. Swelling and Inflammation

Swelling and inflammation are common during the initial stages of recovery. However, if these symptoms persist or reappear after subsiding, it may point towards complications, including:

• Infection
• Hematoma
• Bone Nonunion
• Blood clots

Swelling can be a sign of ongoing inflammation or improper healing. Monitoring and promptly addressing any resurgence of these symptoms is imperative to avoid long-term consequences.

Failed Fusion Surgery: What’s Next?

Dealing with the aftermath of a failed ankle surgery can be challenging, but understanding your options and taking decisive steps is crucial for recovery. Here’s what to do next:

Assess the Situation

In the aftermath of an unsuccessful ankle surgery, it’s essential to assess the factors contributing to the outcome. Understanding the root cause empowers you to make informed decisions moving forward.

Consultation Matters

If you find yourself in the unsettling situation of a failed ankle surgery, don’t worry. Seeking professional guidance can help. Schedule a consultation with your orthopedic surgeon to discuss the complications and explore potential solutions.

Explore Revision Surgery

Consider the possibility of revision surgery as a viable option. An experienced surgeon can evaluate the previous procedure’s shortcomings and work towards rectifying the issues.

Symptoms of Failed Ankle Fusion Surgery Explained

Recognizing the symptoms of failed ankle fusion surgery is pivotal for addressing complications and ensuring a successful recovery.

If you or a loved one are facing challenges after ankle fusion surgery, seeking professional guidance and exploring revision surgery options can pave the way to a renewed quality of life.

At Flint Foot and Ankle Institute, we understand the impact of these challenges and are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover personalized solutions for your unique situation.