[Surgical management of posttraumatic mal-alignments and arthroses in the ankle]

Joint incongruency, malalignement as well as degenerative changes of the ankle joint may result in disabling pain with a significant decrease in function and mobility. The clinical symptoms may affect all aspects of life. Primary osteoarthritis of the ankle joint is uncommon, and posttraumatic conditions with significant changes in joint mechanics are usually the primary source of joint degeneration with the resultant clinical symptoms. Apart from pain relief and restoration of joint mobility, prevention of joint degeneration or progression of arthrosis should be the main goal in treating such conditions. Arthrodesis of the ankle still is the method of choice for severe osteoarthritis of the ankle, however several surgical treatment options are available to deal with mild to moderate joint degeneration. Restoration of the anatomy and joint alignement in posttraumatic deformities as well as ligament reconstruction in chronic instability are measurements to prevent development or progression of osteoarthritis. Joint debridement is useful in primary anterior joint pathology, in advanced osteoarthritis at least temporary pain relief can be achieved. In severe osteoarthritis arthrodesis of the ankle is the method of choice for long-term pain relief and restoration of mobility.