Current concepts in ankle arthrodesis

Ankle osteoarthritis is primarily post traumatic and affects a younger population. It, therefore, not only has a negative effect on the quality of life but also impacts the working life of these patients. A thorough history, clinical examination followed by relevant investigations, radiological and hematological, can provide the necessary information to classify the severity and associated deformity of this condition. This will provide guidance to the necessary and appropriate commencement of treatment. Options include conservative or surgical which can be joint sparing or sacrificing procedures. Ankle arthrodesis, a joint sacrificing procedure, has long been the 'gold standard' and has stood the test of time in providing a pain free plantigrade foot. However, ankle arthroplasty, with newer materials and better understanding, is increasingly being considered for ankle arthritis. In regions with financial constraints and limited accessibility to modern implants ankle arthrodesis should be the preferentially offered surgical procedure. This article will briefly cover the pathophysiology of ankle arthritis, clinical presentation, and its surgical treatment with a focus on ankle arthrodesis.