Analysis of a generic talar prosthetic with a biological talus: A cadaver study

Treatment for talar avascular necrosis is challenging. This study evaluates the feasibility of a generic talar implant by cadaveric assessment. Ten cadaveric ankles were CT-scanned to determine talar implant size. The opposite ankles were CT-scanned with the biological talus and then with the implant. 3D ankle geometry was reconstructed and implant position was compared to the biological talus position. The averages among specimens' positive and negative average-deviations were 0.91 mm and 0.70 mm. Seventy percent of talar dome deviations between the biological talus and implant were within an acceptable range. This study yields promising results to support a generic talus bone prosthetic.