Ankle Distraction Arthroplasty: Evidence and Current Indications

Ankle distraction arthroplasty (ADA; also known as tibiotalar arthrodiastasis) is a less common alternative approach to managing ankle osteoarthritis and potentially delaying or avoiding total ankle arthroplasty and arthrodesis. In ADA, an external fixator is used to distract and offload the joint, potentially relieving pain and creating an environment to partially restore subchondral bone and cartilage. The method maintains the native joint. This review explores current evidence, indications, techniques, outcomes, and complications of ankle distraction arthroplasty.