Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 25, 2026
09:01
Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018
12.5K
Salvage of Failed Total Ankle Replacement Using a Custom Titanium Truss
Jennifer L Mulhern1, Nicole M Protzman2, Amari M White3
1Fellow, Foot and Ankle Reconstruction, Coordinated Health, Bethlehem, PA.
Summary
A custom titanium alloy truss effectively managed severe talar subsidence after total ankle replacement revision. This innovative approach aided limb salvage and promoted bone healing in a complex case.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Talar subsidence is a significant complication following total ankle replacement (TAR).
- Revision surgery or tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis may be required for limb salvage when TAR fails.
Observation:
- A patient with end-stage osteoarthritis underwent TAR, followed by revision surgery for progressive subtalar osteoarthritis and talar subsidence.
- The revised implant became infected and was removed, leading to significant talar subsidence requiring conversion to tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis.
Findings:
- A custom titanium alloy truss was used to fill a large bony void created by implant explantation.
- The patient achieved pain-free weightbearing with radiographic evidence of implant alignment and bone formation within the truss.
Implications:
- Custom titanium trusses offer a potential solution for complex bone voids in limb salvage procedures.
- This technique may help maintain limb length and promote bone healing in challenging orthopedic cases.
