What is Stryker Prophecy technology?

Stryker Prophecy is a patient-specific planning system that uses CT scans to create a detailed 3D model of your ankle. This allows the surgeon to plan the procedure precisely before surgery and use custom 3D-printed guides during the operation for accurate implant placement.

How long does recovery take after ankle replacement?

Recovery varies by patient, but most people are protected weight bearing for 2-4 weeks, then transition to a walking boot. Full recovery typically takes 3-6 months, with continued improvement over the first year.

Is there an age limit for ankle replacement?

There is no strict age limit; candidacy is based on overall health, bone quality, and activity goals. While many patients are in their 50s to 70s, it is essentially designed for any adult with severe arthritis that hasn't responded to non-surgical care.

What can I do after my ankle replacement?

The goal is to return to low-impact activities like walking, swimming, cycling, and golf. High-impact sports like running or jumping are generally discouraged to help preserve the longevity of the implant.

Total Ankle Replacement in Canada | Stryker Prophecy 3D Planning

What is Total Ankle Replacement?

Total ankle replacement (TAR), also called ankle arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged surfaces of the ankle joint with metal and plastic components. It's designed for patients with severe ankle arthritis who experience significant pain and limited mobility despite conservative treatments.

Unlike ankle fusion (which locks the joint in place), ankle replacement aims to preserve motion in the joint. This can result in a more natural walking pattern and may reduce stress on adjacent joints.

Ankle Replacement May Be Recommended For

Post-traumatic arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Failed previous ankle surgery

The goal of ankle replacement is to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life while maintaining ankle motion. Your surgeon will discuss whether you're a suitable candidate based on your specific condition and lifestyle.

Patient-Specific Technology

Stryker Prophecy 3D Planning

Personalized surgical planning with custom 3D-printed guides designed for your unique anatomy

How Prophecy Works

Stryker Prophecy uses advanced CT imaging and 3D modeling to create a detailed surgical plan specific to your ankle anatomy. This allows for precise implant positioning and custom surgical guides that are 3D-printed just for you.

CT Scan

You receive a CT scan following the Prophecy protocol

3D Plan Generation

A preoperative plan is generated according to surgeon preferences

Surgeon Approval

Your surgeon reviews and approves the plan, making adjustments if needed

Custom Guide Fabrication

High-resolution nylon guides are 3D-printed specifically for your anatomy

Precision Surgery

Surgery is performed using the custom guides according to the preoperative plan

Printed Guides

Based Planning

100%

Patient-Specific

Benefits

Advantages of Ankle Replacement

Preserved Joint Motion

Unlike fusion, replacement maintains movement in the ankle
More Natural Gait

Ankle motion contributes to a more natural walking pattern
Reduced Adjacent Joint Stress

May help protect surrounding joints from additional wear
Pain Management

Aims for significant reduction in arthritis-related ankle discomfort

Not everyone is a candidate for ankle replacement. Your surgeon will evaluate factors such as bone quality, alignment, activity level, and overall health to determine the best approach.

What to Expect

Before Surgery

CT scan, Prophecy planning, pre-operative assessment, and custom guide fabrication (typically 2-3 weeks)

Surgery Day

Procedure typically takes 2-3 hours under general or regional anesthesia

Initial Recovery (Weeks 1-4)

Non-weight bearing with cast or boot, elevation to manage swelling

Transition (Weeks 4-8)

Progressive weight bearing, transition to walking boot, begin gentle range of motion

Full Recovery (3-6 Months)

Progressive return to activities, continued strengthening, with improvement continuing for up to a year

Your Ankle Replacement Specialist

Fellowship-trained surgeon with expertise in total ankle replacement

Dr. Danny Arora

Minimally Invasive Foot & Ankle Surgery

Duke University Fellowship Trained

View Profile

Frequently Asked Questions

Both are effective treatments for end-stage ankle arthritis. Ankle replacement preserves motion and may feel more natural, while fusion provides very reliable pain relief. The best choice depends on your age, activity level, bone quality, ankle alignment, and personal goals. Your surgeon will help you understand which option is best for your specific situation.

Modern ankle replacement implants have shown good longevity in studies, with many lasting 10-15 years or more. Longevity depends on factors including activity level, body weight, and bone quality. If a replacement eventually wears out, it can often be revised or converted to a fusion.

Stryker Prophecy allows your surgeon to plan the procedure precisely before surgery using your CT scan data. The custom 3D-printed guides are designed specifically for your anatomy, which may help improve implant positioning accuracy. This personalized approach allows the surgeon to anticipate challenges and optimize the surgical plan for your specific case.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our team to discuss your ankle condition. We recommend bringing any recent X-rays or imaging to your appointment.

There is no strict age limit. Candidacy is determined by factors like your overall health, bone quality, and activity goals. While many patients are between 50 and 80, the procedure is designed to help any adult with severe arthritis that has not responded to non-surgical care.

The primary goal is to return you to low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and golf. High-impact activities like running or jumping are generally discouraged as they can increase wear on the implant components. Most patients find they can return to a very active lifestyle without the debilitating pain of arthritis.

References & Disclosures

Technology information regarding Stryker Prophecy is provided by Stryker Corporation, the manufacturer. For complete product information, indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse events, please refer to the manufacturer's official documentation.

Stryker Prophecy: Stryker Product Information

Individual results may vary. This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your surgeon to determine if you are a candidate for ankle replacement surgery.

Total Ankle Replacement in Canada