Incidence of ankle arthrodesis and total ankle replacement between 1997 and 2018: A nationwide registry study in Finland

BackgroundSurgical treatment options for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis (OA) include ankle arthrodesis (AA) and total ankle replacement (TAR). We investigated the national incidence of AA and TAR and assessed trends in the surgical management of ankle OA in Finland between 1997 and 2018.MethodsThe Finnish Care Register for Health Care was used to calculate the incidence of AA and TAR based on sex and different age groups.ResultsThe mean age (SD) of patients was similar, 57.8 (14.3) years for AA and 58.1 (14.0) for TAR. TAR showed a 3-fold increase from 0.3 per 100 000 person-years in 1997 to 0.9 per 100 000 person-years in 2018. The incidence of AA operations decreased during the study period from 4.4 per 100 000 person-years in 1997 to 3.8 per 100 000 person-years in 2018. TAR utilization increased notably at the expense of AA between 2001 and 2004.ConclusionTAR and AA are both widely used procedures in the treatment of ankle OA, with AA being the favored option for most patients. The incidence of TAR has remained constant for the past 10 years, indicating appropriate treatment indications and utilization.     

Six year results of the Rebalance mobile bearing total ankle replacement

BackgroundWe report the outcomes of a prospective consecutive series of 267 total ankle replacements (TARs) using a new mobile bearing Rebalance® prosthesis.MethodsBetween April 2011 and December 2018, 267 consecutive Rebalance® prostheses were implanted in 255 patients at 3 different centers. Estimated survival curves with 95% confidence intervals were produced with the Kaplan–Meier method. 110 ankles were followed for at least 5 years and clinical and radiological outcomes were assessed in 92 of these ankles.ResultsTwenty-one ankles were revised at a mean of 34 (7–60) months. The estimated survival was 90% (95% CI 86–95) at 5 years and 88.3% (95% CI 83.–94 at 6 years. The ankles followed for at least 5 years demonstrated a median Likert score of 1 (1–4). Radiolucent zones were detected in 14% and osteolytic cysts in 3%.ConclusionThe survival rate of the Rebalance prosthesis conforms with other reports of similar designs. The satisfaction rate was high. Radiological zones and osteolytic cysts were found at a lower rate than usually reported for mobile bearing TARs. These results favour further use of this implant.     

Clinical outcome results of total ankle replacement and ankle arthrodesis: a pilot randomised controlled trial

BackgroundAnkle arthrodesis (AA) and replacement (TAA) are widely accepted options in managing end-stage ankle arthritis (ESAA). We hypothesize that clinical outcomes would be similar for both interventions.MethodsWe conducted a multicenter randomized controlled trial that collected data on patient demographics, complication rates, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) scores. We evaluated pre and postoperative scores within and between cohorts.ResultsThe thirty-nine ankles enrolled had a mean follow-up of 5.1 ± 2.8 years. Total AOS scores improved significantly in both groups; 59.4 ± 15.9 to 38 ± 20 (p-value = 0.002) for TAA and 64.6 ± 19.7 to 31.8 ± 16.5 (p-value < 0.001) for AA at last follow-up. Complication rate was higher in the AA cohort with four major complications (20%).ConclusionWe observed a statistically significant benefit with TAA and AA. As a pilot trial, this study is meant to inform on design and feasibility of future RCTs.Level of evidenceII     

Pre-requisites for optimum centering of a tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis nail

BackgroundPurpose of study was to compare nail alignment, incidence of stress riser and fracture with straight and curved nails of different lengths.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective review of consecutive, initially 13 straight and subsequently 15 curved nails implanted in 17 men and 11 women. Angles of incidence and reflection subtended by nail tip with inner tibial cortex were measured. Cortical hypertrophy was assessed on follow-up radiographs.ResultsAngles of incidence and reflection were greater with short straight nails, less with long straight nails and stayed close to zero with long curved nails.Stress fractures occurred in 2 patients with straight nails at the level of the proximalmost tibial screw. Cortical hypertrophy was present in 7 patients with straight nails and in only 1 patient with a curved nail (p = 0.01).ConclusionsBoth nail length and inbuilt valgus contribute to better central positioning within the tibia. However, cortical stress reactions occur less frequently with curved nails.     

Biomechanical comparison of stability of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with two different intramedullary retrograde nails

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to compare the initial construct stability of two retrograde intramedullary nail systems for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTCF) (A3, Small Bone Innovations; HAN, Synthes) in a biomechanical cadaver study.MethodsNine pairs of human cadaver bones were instrumented with two different retrograde nail systems. One tibia from each pair was randomized to either rod. The bone mineral density was determined via tomography to ensure the characteristics in each pair of tibiae were similar. All tests were performed in load-control. Displacements and forces were acquired by the sensors of the machine at a rate of 64 Hz. Specimens were tested in a stepwise progression starting with six times ±125N with a frequency of 1 Hz for 250 cycles each step was performed (1500 cycles). The maximum load was then increased to ±250N for another 14 steps or until specimen failure occurred (up to 3500 cycles).ResultsAverage bone mineral density was 67.4 mgHA/ccm and did not differ significantly between groups (t-test, p = .28). Under cyclic loading, the range of motion (dorsiflexion/plantarflexion) at 250N was significantly lower for the HAN-group with 7.2 ± 2.3 mm compared to the A3-group with 11.8 ± 2.9 mm (t-test, p < 0.01). Failure was registered for the HAN after 4571 ± 1134 cycles and after 2344 ± 1195 cycles for the A3 (t-test, p = .031). Bone mineral density significantly correlated with the number of cycles to failure in both groups (Spearman-Rho, r > .69, p < 0.01).ConclusionsThe high specimen age and low bone density simulates an osteoporotic bone situation. The HAN with only lateral distal bend but two calcaneal locking screws showed higher stability (higher number of cycles to failure and lower motion such as dorsiflexion/plantarflexion during cyclic loading) than the A3 with additional distal dorsal bend but only one calcaneal locking screw. Both constructs showed sufficient stability compared with earlier data from a similar test model.Clinical relevanceThe data suggest that both implants allow for sufficient primary stability for TTCF in osteoporotic and consequently also in non-osteoporotic bone.Level of evidenceNot applicable, experimental basic science study.     

Comparison of arthroscopic to open tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis in high-risk patients

BackgroundOpen tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTCA) is associated to high complication rates, which led to the development of arthroscopic techniques. Aim was to compare complication rates of open to arthroscopic TTCA in high-risk patients.MethodsSingle-center, retrospective case-control study. Patients were selected from the authors’ TTCA database. Eligible were high-risk patients receiving arthroscopic-, or open TTCA retrospectively suitable for arthroscopic TTCA. Primary outcome were major complications.ResultsEight open and 15 arthroscopic TTCAs were included. Three open and 4 arthroscopic TTCAs presented preoperative plantar ulceration. Fusion rates were similar (75% vs. 67%; p = 0.679). Major complications occurred in 63% of open (80% surgical-site-infections (SSI)) and 33% of arthroscopic (100% non-unions) TTCA. Preoperative plantar ulceration did not affect major SSI in open TTCA (67% vs. 60%) but resulted in a significant increase of non-union rates for arthroscopic TTCA (75% vs. 18%; p = 0.039). In patients without plantar ulceration the union-rate was 80% for both, open and arthroscopic TTCA.ConclusionArthroscopic TTCA drastically reduced major SSI. Patients without preexisting ulceration had excellent union-rates for open and arthroscopic TTCA.     

Fixation of ankle fragility fractures by tibiotalocalcaneal nail

Introduction Fragility fractures of the ankle are difficult to treat by conventional fixation due to poor bone quality, compromised soft tissues, and inherent instability. Conservative management of these patients also has its problems. Materials and methods We retrospectively reviewed 13 patients who underwent intramedullary nailing through the tibiotalocalcaneal joints in an attempt to achieve the dual aims of fracture control and early mobilisation. The Olerud and Molander scale was used as outcome measures. Results There were 12 females and 1 male with a mean age of 78.9 (range 64–93). Half of the patients were discharged from hospital within the first 2 weeks after the operation. All achieved a comparable function to their pre-operative state. The mean follow-up period was 11 months (range of 2–62 months). Six are now deceased from unrelated causes. The mean Olerud and Molander score was 50 (range 30–65). All the radiographs showed evidence of fracture union with no changes in the overall alignment of the joint. Conclusion Given the low survivorship of this frail group of patients the main objectives are achieving early mobilisation whilst maintaining good fracture position. In our experience, tibiotalocalcaneal nailing is a very useful and successful way of treating fragility fractures of the ankle because it has a low risk of complications and restores function with impressive patient satisfaction. The potential benefits of this technique, we believe, outweigh the disability ensued from subtalar joint fusion.     

Outcome of ankle arthrodesis in posttraumatic arthritis

Background:

Ankle arthrodesis is still a gold standard salvage procedure for the management of ankle arthritis. There are several functional and mechanical benefits of ankle arthrodesis, which make it a viable surgical procedure in the management of ankle arthritis. The functional outcomes following ankle arthrodesis are not very well known. The purpose of this study was to perform a clinical and radiographic evaluation of ankle arthrodesis in posttraumatic arthritis performed using Charnley''s compression device.

Materials and Methods:

Between January 2006 and December 2009 a functional assessment of 15 patients (10 males and 5 females) who had undergone ankle arthrodesis for posttraumatic arthritis and/or avascular necrosis (AVN) talus (n=6), malunited bimalleolar fracture (n=4), distal tibial plafond fractures (n=3), medial malleoli nonunion (n=2). All the patients were assessed clinically and radiologically after an average followup of 2 years 8 months (range 1–5.7 years).

Results:

All patients had sound ankylosis and no complications related to the surgery. Scoring the patients with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot scale, we found that 11 of the 15 had excellent results, two had good, and two showed fair results. They were all returned to their preinjury activities.

Conclusion:

We conclude that, the ankle arthrodesis can still be considered as a standard procedure in ankle arthritis. On the basis of these results, patients should be counseled that an ankle fusion will help to relieve pain and to improve overall function. Still, one should keep in mind that it is a salvage procedure that will cause persistent alterations in gait with a potential for deterioration due to the development of subtalar arthritis.     

Safety and efficacy of total ankle arthroplasty versus ankle arthrodesis for ankle osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease-causing pain and disability, and its management keeps creating a debate. So, we aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of total ankle arthroplasty and ankle arthrodesis for ankle osteoarthritis. We searched PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science till August 2021. The outcomes were pooled as Mean difference (MD) or Risk Ratio (RR), and 95% confidence interval. We included 36 studies. The results showed a significantly lower risk of infections in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) than ankle arthrodesis (AA) (RR= 0.63, 95% CI [0.57, 0.70], p < 0.00001), amputations (RR= 0.40, 95% CI [0.22, 0.72], p = 0.002), postoperative non-union (RR= 0.11, 95% CI [0.03, 0.34], p = 0.0002), and a significant increase of overall range of motion in TAA than AA. Our results preferred total ankle arthroplasty over ankle arthrodesis in terms of lowering the rates of infections, amputations, and postoperative non-union, with better change in the overall range of motion.     

Outcome of unilateral ankle arthrodesis and total ankle replacement in terms of bilateral gait mechanics

Previous studies assessed the outcome of ankle arthrodesis (AA) and total ankle replacement (TAR) surgeries; however, the extent of postoperative recovery towards bilateral gait mechanics (BGM) is unknown. We evaluated the outcome of the two surgeries at least 2 years post rehabilitation, focusing on BGM. 36 participants, including 12 AA patients, 12 TAR patients, and 12 controls were included. Gait assessment over 50 m distance was performed utilizing pressure insoles and 3D inertial sensors, following which an intraindividual comparison was performed. Most spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters in the TAR group were indicative of good gait symmetry, while the AA group presented significant differences. Plantar pressure symmetry among the AA group was also significantly distorted. Abnormality in biomechanical behavior of the AA unoperated, contralateral foot was observed. In summary, our results indicate an altered BGM in AA patients, whereas a relatively fully recovered BGM is observed in TAR patients, despite the quantitative differences in several parameters when compared to a healthy population. Our study supports a biomechanical assessment and rehabilitation of both operated and unoperated sides after major surgeries for ankle osteoarthrosis. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:377–384, 2014.     

Total ankle replacements: an overview

One of the most widely debated topics amongst foot and ankle surgeons is the treatment of end stage arthritis. With the advent of the newer generation of total ankle replacement (TAR), a viable option over an arthrodesis is now available for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis. When compared with an ankle arthroplasty, recent reports suggest the ankle arthrodesis has poor long-term outcomes (20 years+) and can experience short- and long-term complications. Proper training, strict patient selection, and proper implant contribute to a successful outcome. As advances continue to be made in both implant design and surgical technique, the benefits of a TAR appears to provide the foot and ankle surgeon a good alternative for the appropriate patient.     

Learning curve assessment for total ankle replacement using the transfibular approach

BackgroundTotal ankle arthroplasty is an increasingly effective option for the treatment of end-stage arthritis. One recent innovation utilizes a transfibular, lateral approach. Like any new system, there is likely a learning curve associated with its use. We analyzed a series of patients who received a total ankle arthroplasty via a transfibular approach to state if it is possible to identify and to evaluate effects of a learning curve in the use of this novel total ankle replacement system.Methods76 consecutive patients meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had a minimum of 24 months of follow-up. Intraoperative parameters, preoperative and postoperative subjective outcome scores, radiographic parameters, and complications were recorded and evaluated.ResultsThere were significant learning curve effects on various surgical and postoperative parameters. Surgical time decreased with the curve stabilizing after the 16th patient. With regard to patient outcomes, a learning curve was identified for the VAS, AOFAS, and SF-12 MCS scores. The number of patients required to stabilize these curves were 21, 13, and 16, respectively. Alignment as measured by alpha and gamma angles also improved with experience, with the curves stabilizing at 18 and 15 patients, respectively. There was a larger number cases required for complication rates, with the curve stabilizing after the 39th patient. No significant learning curve was found for ankle ROM, SF-12 PCS, beta angle, tibio-talar ratio (TTR), or tibio-talar surface angle (TTS).ConclusionsThis study demonstrates a significant learning curve with respect to operative time, patient outcomes, and radiographic parameters. Extrapolating this information, we urge surgeons to adequately familiarize themselves with any new implant through a training program in a high-volume center.Level of evidenceIV, case series.     

踝关节病的人工踝关节置换

[目的]探讨人工踝关节置换治疗踝关节病的疗效。[方法]对1999~2004年1月的18例患者包括骨性踝关节炎6例,创伤性踝关节炎9例,局限性距骨缺血坏死2例,踝关节融合后1例,均采用L ink STAR假体3构件套进行人工踝关节置换。18例中,男13例,女5例;平均年龄47.7岁(38~67)。[结果]随访平均3 a 9个月(1~5 a)。按Kofoed评价系统观察疗效,优(85~100)16例,良(75~84)2例,无可(70~74)和差(<70)。患足背屈平均8°(范围6°~12°),跖屈12°(范围8°~16°),背屈和跖屈平均16°(11°~23°)。并发症有切口皮缘坏死2例,无足内、外翻和影像学松动。[结论]人工踝关节置换是治疗和替代踝关节多种疾患疼痛和需要融合的良好方法。     

踝关节融合术与全踝关节置换术治疗终末期踝关节炎临床疗效的Meta分析

目的:系统评价全踝关节置换术(total ankle arthroplasty,TAA)和踝关节融合术(ankle arthrodesis,AA)在治疗终末期踝关节炎的临床疗效。方法:文献检索PubMed、EMBASE和Cochrane图书馆数据库发表的TAA或AA治疗终末期踝关节炎的文献,检索日期从建库至2021年6月。采用偏倚风险工具进行文献质量评价。采用RevMan 5.3软件美国足对两组踝外科协会踝与后足评分(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale,AOFAS)、视觉模拟评分(visual analog scale,VAS)、踝关节骨关节炎评分(ankle osteoarthritis scale,AOS),步态分析(步速、步频、步幅)、活动范围(range of motion,ROM),满意度、并发症和再次手术率进行Meta分析。结果:共纳入12篇文献,其中AA组1 050例,TAA组3 760例,共计4 810例患者。Meta分析结果显示两组的AOFAS总分[MD=-3.12,95%C...     

Efficacy of total ankle replacement with meniscal-bearing devices: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction The reputation of total ankle arthroplasty for treating end-stage ankle arthritis of different origin is dubious. Newer generation meniscal-bearing prostheses may have overcome the known problems with earlier implants. There is, however, no systematic approach to the available scientific evidence allowing for a critical appraisal of their benefits and risks.Materials and methods We conducted a systematic review meta-analysis of studies exploring the efficacy of three-component total ankle prostheses. We demanded a minimum sample size of 20 subjects, at least 1 year of follow-up, and a clinically relevant study endpoint (for example, results of ankle scoring, ranges of motion [ROM], complications, and survival rates). We identified citations by electronic medical databases and a manual search. We made no restrictions for language. We used an eight-point quality scale to appraise methodological standards, and modeled outcomes by random-effects meta-regression analysis.Results Eighteen of 1830 citations including 1086 patients fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Studies met a median of four quality items (interquartile range 2–5). Outcome estimates did not depend on methodological quality. There was no evidence of strong heterogeneity or publication bias. With standardized 100-point ankle and hindfoot scores, formal data pooling was possible for 10 trials ( n =497), showing a mean improvement of 45.2 points (95% confidence interval [CI] 39.3–51.1). Overall ROM improved slightly (6.3°, 95%CI 2.2–10.5°). Weighted complication rates ranged from 1.6% (deep infections) to 14.7% (impingement). Secondary surgery had to be performed in 12.5%, whereas secondary arthrodesis was necessary in 6.3%. The weighted 5-year prosthesis survival rate averaged 90.6%.Conclusions Ankle arthroplasty improves pain and joint mobility in end-stage ankle arthritis. Its performance in comparison to the current reference standard (that is, ankle fusion) remains to be defined in a properly designed randomized trial.     

Comparing 30-day all-cause readmission rates between tibiotalar fusion and total ankle replacement

BackgroundEnd-stage ankle arthritis is a debilitating condition that negatively impacts patient quality of life. Tibiotalar fusion and total ankle replacement are treatment options for managing ankle arthritis. Few studies have examined short term readmission rates of these two procedures. The objective of this study was compare all-cause 30-day readmission rates between patients undergoing tibiotalar fusion vs. total ankle replacement.MethodsThis study queried the Nationwide Readmission Database (NRD) from 2013–2014 and used international classification of disease, 9th revision (ICD-9) procedure codes to identify all patients who underwent a tibiotalar fusion or a total ankle replacement. Comorbidities, insurance status, hospital characteristics, and readmission rates were statistically compared between the two cohorts. Risk factors were then identified for 30-day readmission.ResultsA total of 5660 patients were analyzed with 2667 in the tibiotalar fusion cohort and 2993 in the total ankle replacement cohort. Univariate analysis revealed that the readmission rate after tibiotalar fusion (4.4%) was statistically greater than after total ankle replacement (1.4%). Multivariable regression analysis indicated that deficiency anemia (OR 2.18), coagulopathy (OR 3.51), renal failure (OR 2.83), other insurance relative to private (OR 3.40), and tibiotalar fusion (OR 2.51) were all statistically significant independent risk factors for having a readmission within 30-days.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that during the short-term period following discharge from the hospital, patients who received a tibiotalar fusion are more likely to experience a 30-day readmission. These findings are important for decision making when a surgeon encounters a patient with end stage ankle arthritis.Level of evidence: Level III, cohort study.     

Addressing varus and valgus deformity of the ankle: Algorithmic approach to total ankle arthroplasty

Total ankle replacements have become increasingly popular, providing a viable alternative to ankle arthrodesis in patients with end stage ankle arthritis. Continued advancements in implant design have substantially improved long term survival outcomes as well as patient pain relief, range of motion, and quality of life. Surgeons continue to advance the indications for implantation of total ankle replacements in patients with more severe varus and valgus coronal plane deformity. This report of twelve cases demonstrates our algorithmic approach to total ankle arthroplasty in patients with deformity of the foot and ankle. By proposing a clinical algorithm with case examples, we aim to aid clinicians in successfully approaching coronal plane deformities of the foot and ankle when using total ankle replacement to ultimately improve clinical outcomes.     

Total ankle arthroplasty and ankle arthrodesis in rheumatic disease patients: An analysis of outcomes and complications using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database

IntroductionRheumatoid arthritis (RA), can manifest as an inflammatory arthropathy in the ankle. As a result, this study sought to examine the role of RA with respect to complications in patients undergoing either total ankle arthroplasty or ankle arthrodesis by utilizing the National Inpatient Sample to assess for correlations.MethodsAdmissions for TAA and AA were extracted from the National Inpatient Sample using primary ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes. Patients aged 18–65 years with a duration of hospital stay of >3 days and isolated complications were included. Multivariable regression was then performed within matched groups to determine differences.ResultsThere was decreased risk of myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, surgical site infection, and urinary tract infection in patients with RA. Postoperative development of pneumonia was seen at a higher rate in patients with RA.ConclusionRA is not associated with a markedly increased complication burden in the appropriately chosen surgical candidate for ankle arthrodesis and ankle arthroplasty.     

Effect of total ankle replacement on the 3-dimensional subtalar joint alignment in varus ankle osteoarthritis

BackgroundVarus ankle osteoarthritis (OA) is typically associated with peritalar instability, which may result in altered subtalar joint position. This study aimed to determine the extent to which total ankle replacement (TAR) in varus ankle OA can restore the subtalar alignment.MethodsFourteen patients (15 ankles, mean age 61 ± 6 years) who underwent TAR for varus ankle OA were analyzed using semi-automated measurements based on weight-bearing computed tomography. Twenty healthy individuals served as a control group.ResultsAll angles improved between preoperative and a minimum of 1 year (mean 2.1 years) postoperative and were statistically significant in 6 out of 8 angles (P < 0.05).ConclusionsOur findings indicate that talus repositioning after TAR restores the subtalar joint alignment which may improve hindfoot biomechanics. Future studies are required to implement these findings for TAR in presence of hindfoot deformity.Level of evidenceIV.