[Early results of total ankle arthroplasty]

Objective of the study was to evaluate total ankle arthroplasty as the treatment of choice for ankle arthritis; to analyze variables' influence upon early results after total ankle arthroplasty; and to determine early and late postoperative complications and the ways to avoid them.

We evaluated clinical results of 18 patients (out of 23 operated patients), for whom total ankle replacement was performed in 1998-2003. Uncemented Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (WLink, Germany) endoprosthesis was used in all cases. The patients were examined, questioned and evaluated according to modified rating system recommended by American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society. We observed early and late postoperative complications.

Excellent and good results were observed in 9 cases (50%); fair results were in 6 cases (33%), poor in 2 cases (12%), and failure in 1 case (5%). Complications occurred in 11 cases (61%): 4 patients had neurological complaints in operated foot, delayed wound healing was observed in 2 cases, 3 patients had plantar flexion contracture, for 1 patient arthrodesis was done because of dislocation of meniscus component.

Total ankle replacement is an alternative treatment to arthrodesis after posttraumatic ankle arthritis. Results after total ankle arthroplasty are worse than after total hip or knee replacement. Operative technique has great influence on total ankle replacement results. Accurately selected indications for surgery decrease complication rate.