Salvage surgery for talar component subsidence after total ankle arthroplasty using the FINE Total Ankle System: A...

In recent years, total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has been increasingly selected for the treatment of ankle arthropathy associated with rheumatoid arthritis because it allows early weight-bearing and preservation of ankle range of motion. However, salvage strategies for talar component subsidence after TAA depend on the implant system used, and ankle arthrodesis is frequently selected for cases treated with the FINE Total Ankle System (NAKASHIMA HEALTHFORCE CO.). Implant removal followed by ankle arthrodesis inevitably results in loss of ankle motion and substantial bone defects. Furthermore, removal of a cemented implant often requires extensive bone debridement, which may further increase the risk of non-union and deterioration of activities of daily living due to prolonged non-weight-bearing. We report a case of talar component subsidence of approximately 10 mm after TAA treated with the FINE Total Ankle System, successfully managed by revision TAA using the largest available talar component (size 6L) combination with bone grafting and medial malleolar osteotomy. This approach preserved ankle range of motion and was associated with favourable mid-term clinical and radiographic outcomes in the present case. Revision TAA using the largest available talar component with bone grafting may be considered a potential salvage option for carefully selected patients with talar component subsidence after TAA using the FINE Total Ankle System.