Interposition ankle arthroplasty using Achilles tendon allograft ("the AAA procedure"): a case report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Musculoskeletal Research

Background:

• End-stage ankle osteoarthritis presents limited surgical options, including debridement, arthroplasty, and fusion.
• Interposition arthroplasty offers a potential alternative to delay or obviate ankle arthrodesis.
• The Achilles Ankle Arthroplasty (AAA) procedure utilizes a free Achilles tendon allograft.

Observation:

• A case study details the clinical presentation and treatment course for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis.
• The surgical technique for the Achilles Ankle Arthroplasty (AAA) procedure is described.
• Patient outcomes following the AAA procedure were evaluated.

Findings:

• Interposition arthroplasty with a tendon allograft, specifically the AAA procedure, demonstrated effectiveness in treating end-stage ankle arthritis.
• The Achilles tendon allograft served as a viable option for joint preservation and pain management.
• Successful application of the AAA procedure was observed in the reported case.

Implications:

• The AAA procedure represents a promising surgical option for managing end-stage ankle osteoarthritis.
• This technique may offer a less invasive alternative to traditional fusion, preserving joint function.
• Further research into tendon allograft interposition arthroplasty could advance ankle arthritis treatment strategies.