Imaging of ankle replacements

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• First-generation total ankle replacement devices had disappointing outcomes.
• Total ankle arthroplasty is increasingly preferred over ankle arthrodesis for end-stage ankle osteoarthrosis.
• Advancements have significantly improved total ankle replacement surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review innovations in total ankle replacement surgery.
• To highlight the importance of preoperative evaluation and imaging in total ankle arthroplasty.
• To discuss the role of imaging in detecting complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent advancements in total ankle replacement.
• Discussion of clinical and radiographic evaluation techniques.
• Emphasis on the use of computed tomography for complication assessment.

Main Results:

• Total ankle arthroplasty is now a common procedure for end-stage ankle osteoarthrosis.
• Preoperative planning involving imaging is crucial for optimal surgical outcomes.
• Early identification of hardware loosening or subsidence through imaging allows for timely intervention.

Conclusions:

• Modern total ankle replacement surgery offers improved results compared to earlier generations.
• Thorough preoperative assessment and vigilant postoperative monitoring with imaging are essential for successful total ankle arthroplasty.
• Computed tomography plays a valuable role in evaluating periprosthetic issues like lucency and osteolysis.