INFINITY Total Ankle Replacement with Prophecy preoperative guide

A Modern Solution for End-Stage Ankle Arthritis

Total Ankle Replacement (TAR) has become an increasingly viable and effective treatment for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis, offering an alternative to ankle fusion that preserves motion and function. Among the latest advancements in TAR technology is the INFINITY™ Total Ankle System by Wright Medical (now part of Stryker), a streamlined, bone-sparing implant designed for improved accuracy, durability, and patient outcomes.

What is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total ankle replacement, also known as ankle arthroplasty, involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage in the ankle joint and replacing it with a prosthetic implant that mimics the natural movement of the ankle. It is typically recommended for patients with severe osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or inflammatory arthritis who have not responded to conservative treatments.

Why Choose the INFINITY™ Ankle System?

The INFINITY™ Total Ankle System is a fixed-bearing, two-component prosthesis engineered for precision, stability, and longevity. It is especially known for its compatibility with PROPHECY™ pre-operative navigation guides, allowing surgeons to plan implant placement with a high degree of accuracy using 3D imaging.

Key Benefits:

• ✅ Bone-Sparing Design: Minimal bone resection compared to traditional implants.

• ✅ Anatomic Fit: Multiple sizes and configurations for a more natural joint match.

• ✅ Improved Accuracy: Compatible with PROPHECY™ CT-guided patient-specific instruments.

• ✅ Streamlined Procedure: Designed to reduce surgical time and intraoperative guesswork.

  
  

The Surgical Procedure

1. Pre-operative Planning

Using a CT scan, a detailed 3D model of the patient’s ankle is created. This allows for precise templating of the implant position with the PROPHECY™ system, tailored to each individual’s anatomy.

2. Ankle Joint Preparation

The surgeon makes a small incision on the front of the ankle and carefully removes the damaged bone and cartilage while preserving as much healthy bone as possible.

3. Implant Placement

The tibial and talar components of the INFINITY™ system are inserted and aligned with the pre-operative plan. Once the components are secured, the joint is tested for stability and range of motion.

4. Closure and Recovery

The incision is closed, and the patient’s ankle is immobilized to allow for proper healing.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

• 🩼 Non-weight-bearing for 2–6 weeks post-op, progressing to partial and then full weight-bearing.

• 🏃‍♂️ Physical therapy begins within the first few weeks to restore motion, strength, and gait mechanics.

• ⏳ Full recovery generally occurs over 3–6 months.

Most patients experience:

• Significant pain relief

• Improved mobility

• Restoration of daily function

• Preservation of natural ankle motion

Who is a Candidate for INFINITY™ Total Ankle Replacement?

Ideal candidates typically have:

• End-stage ankle arthritis unresponsive to conservative treatment

• Reasonable ankle alignment and bone quality

• No active infection or severe deformity

• A desire to maintain joint motion vs fusion

Patients with severe bone loss, neuropathy, or poor vascular health may not be suitable candidates and should discuss alternatives with their surgeon.

Conclusion

The INFINITY™ Total Ankle Replacement offers a reliable, motion-preserving solution for patients suffering from debilitating ankle arthritis. With its bone-sparing design, personalized surgical planning, and excellent clinical outcomes, it represents a modern standard in ankle arthroplasty.

If you are experiencing chronic ankle pain and loss of function, talk to a foot and ankle specialist to see if total ankle replacement is right for you.