Ankle replacement devices

The medical devices team, part of the product liability department at Leigh Day, is currently investigating claims relating to total ankle replacement implants.

Ankle replacement surgery is offered to people who are suffering severe pain in their ankle joints caused by arthritis, and to people who have suffered injuries to their ankle joints, for example, sports injuries. Ankle joint replacement aims to maintain the existing range of movement that the person enjoys, rather than extending it.

Total ankle replacement surgery, also known as ankle arthroplasty, has become more widely used in recent years as a treatment option for some patients.

However, the development of osteolytic lesions has been reported following the implantation of various total ankle replacement systems.

Osteolytic lesions are usually linked with osteolysis, which involves the degeneration of bone tissue, and can be caused by infection, ischaemia or disease. If osteolysis is left untreated the joint can fail, and the destruction of the bones around the ankle can follow.

Other complications which can result in ankle replacement failure include aseptic loosening, subsidence, and implant fracture. In rare cases, failure of an ankle replacement can lead to the necessity for lower leg amputation.

Total ankle replacement compensation

Patients who have been fitted with total ankle replacements may experience persistent pain, swelling and stiffness. In some cases patients may have to undergo revision surgery if the device fails entirely.

If you have undergone implant surgery and have been fitted with a total ankle device and believe that it has failed you may be able to claim compensation.

Compensation can cover the pain you have suffered and the financial consequences of any revision surgery you have undergone, for example, if you have been unable to work because of health problems.