Total ankle arthroplasty is a treatment option for end-stage osteoarthritis of the ankle. However, many variables, including patient characteristics, are thought to influence clinical outcome and survival. This article discusses new recommendations which should be considered while selecting a patient for total ankle arthroplasty. Ankle osteoarthritis is less common than hip or knee osteoarthritis but it is a relatively common presentation and is predominantly related to previous trauma.
Treatments have traditionally consisted of temporizing measures such as analgesia, physiotherapy, and injections until operative treatment in the form of arthrodesis is required. Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is a more preferred technique for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis. However, as with any surgery, patient selection for total ankle replacement (TAR) is considered critical for long-term outcomes.…
