Low tibial osteotomy for moderate ankle arthritis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Ankle arthritis presents a significant challenge, often leading to fusion as a primary treatment.
• Early intervention aims to preserve joint function and delay or avoid fusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of low tibial osteotomy as an alternative treatment for ankle arthritis.
• To assess functional outcomes and complications associated with this procedure.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 18 low tibial osteotomies performed between 1989 and 1995.
• Inclusion of patients with post-traumatic and degenerative arthritis.
• Follow-up averaged 47.7 months.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement in average functional score from 49.6 to 88.5.
• Yearly functional improvement observed.
• Low complication rate: one late infection and two implant failures, with no nonunions.

Conclusions:

• Low tibial osteotomy is indicated for intermediate-stage ankle arthritis with specific joint involvement.
• The procedure redistributes joint pressure, offering a viable alternative to fusion.
• It can preserve the arthritic ankle or postpone the need for fusion surgery.