New Wheels.

Today was my 12 week post-op check since I got my “new wheel” installed on June 17. It is not easy to explain to people what takes place with ankle replacement surgery.  Thankfully, this picture provides graphical assistance.

As you can see, there is a nice prosthestic below the tibia (bigger bone) and fibula (smaller bone) and above the talus bone.  This new joint, the Agility Total Ankle Replacement System, gives me a greater range of motion with no pain--sweet!   I will not realize the full benefit of this surgery until I begin to walk again without a boot or crutches in March 2009.  This will be after the left ankle has gone through two rounds of surgery with the first one on September 23.

Dr. Haddad liked what he saw in the films today.  I am now off crutches and walking with only the aircast boot—Praise the Lord!  I have been on crutches for six months since my first surgery on March 11.  There have been days when I have wanted to chuck the crutches and walk. Thankfully that day arrived today!

Although I will not be running, with this new ankle replacement I am reminded of friend of mine whose nickname growing up was “Wheels”.  He got the nickname for how he motored around the bases on the baseball diamond.  I doubt I will be able to motor like Wheels, but I am optimistic I will keep up with him in a fast walk.  Stay tuned for the results in 2009!