Ankle Osteoarthritis - Arthroplasty or Arthrodesis?

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rheumatology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Osteoarthritis of the talocrural joint (ankle OA) is uncommon, representing 4% of degenerative musculoskeletal diseases.
• Idiopathic ankle OA occurs in only 7% of patients, unlike other joints.
• Historically, arthrodesis was the primary treatment for advanced ankle OA until the late 1960s.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and compare the literature on surgical treatment outcomes for talocrural joint osteoarthritis.
• To evaluate the efficacy of arthrodesis versus arthroplasty in managing ankle OA.
• To examine the strict indications for both arthrodesis and arthroplasty in talocrural joint OA.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of surgical treatment results for talocrural joint osteoarthritis.
• Analysis of patient selection criteria for arthrodesis and arthroplasty.
• Consideration of indications, co-morbidities, and patient activity levels.

Main Results:

• Arthrodesis is indicated for irreversible joint damage, neurological issues, severe osteoporosis, and chronic inflammation.
• Ankle arthroplasty is suitable for patients under 60 without non-orthopedic comorbidities, with low physical demands, intact joint alignment, and good mobility.
• The study reviews outcomes based on these specific surgical method indications.

Conclusions:

• Both arthrodesis and arthroplasty are viable surgical options for talocrural joint osteoarthritis.
• Patient selection based on strict indications is crucial for successful surgical outcomes.
• The choice between arthrodesis and arthroplasty depends on individual patient factors and disease severity.