Aims

The Vantage Total Ankle System is a fourth-generation low-profile fixed-bearing implant that has been available since 2016. We aimed to describe our early experience with this implant.

Aims. This scoping review aims to identify patient-related factors associated with a poorer outcome following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). Methods. A scoping review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A computer-based literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane trials, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently performed title/abstract and full-text screening according to predetermined selection criteria. English-language original research studies reporting patient-related factors associated with a poorer outcome following TAA were included. Outcomes were defined as patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), perioperative complications, and failure. Results. A total of 94 studies reporting 101,552 cases of TAA in 101,177 patients were included. The most common patient-related risk factor associated with poorer outcomes were younger age (21 studies), rheumatoid arthritis (17 studies), and diabetes (16 studies). Of the studies using multivariable regression specifically, the most frequently described risk factors were younger age (12 studies), rheumatoid arthritis (eight studies), diabetes (eight studies), and high BMI (eight studies). Conclusion. When controlling for confounding factors, the most commonly reported risk factors for poor outcome are younger age, rheumatoid arthritis, and comorbidities such as diabetes and increased BMI. These patient-related risk factors reported may be used to facilitate the refinement of patient selection criteria for TAA and inform patient expectations. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(9):985–992

Aims. The aim of this study was to capture 12-month outcomes from a representative multicentre cohort of patients undergoing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA), describe the pattern of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at 12 months, and identify predictors of these outcome measures. Methods. Patients listed for a primary TAA at 19 NHS hospitals between February 2016 and October 2017 were eligible. PROMs data were collected preoperatively and at six and 12 months including: Manchester-Oxford Foot and Ankle Questionnaire (MOXFQ (foot and ankle)) and the EuroQol five-dimension five-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L). Radiological pre- and postoperative data included Kellgren-Lawrence score and implant position measurement. This was supplemented by data from the National Joint Registry through record linkage to determine: American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade at index procedure; indication for surgery, index ankle previous fracture; tibial hind foot alignment; additional surgery at the time of TAA; and implant type. Multivariate regression models assessed outcomes, and the relationship between MOXFQ and EQ-5D-5L outcomes, with patient characteristics. Results. Data from 238 patients were analyzed. There were significant improvements in MOXFQ and EQ-5D-5L among people who underwent TAA at six- and 12-month assessments compared with preoperative scores (p < 0.001). Most improvement occurred between preoperative and six months, with little further improvement at 12 months. A greater improvement in MOXFQ outcome postoperatively was associated with older age and more advanced radiological signs of ankle osteoarthritis at baseline. Conclusion. TAA significantly benefits patients with end-stage ankle disease. The lack of substantial further overall change between six and 12 months suggests that capturing PROMs at six months is sufficient to assess the success of the procedure. Older patients and those with advanced radiological disease had the greater gains. These outcome predictors can be used to counsel younger patients and those with earlier ankle disease on the expectations of TAA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(8):895–904

Aims. When a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) fails, it can be converted to a fusion or a revision arthroplasty. Despite the increasing numbers of TAAs being undertaken, there is little information in the literature about the management of patients undergoing fusion following a failed TAA. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the survival of fusions following a failed TAA using a large dataset from the National Joint Registry (NJR). Methods. A data linkage study combined NJR and NHS Digital data. Failure of a TAA was defined as a fusion, revision to a further TAA, or amputation. Life tables and Kaplan-Meier graphs were used to record survival. Cox proportional hazards regression models were fitted to compare the rates of failure. Results. A total of 131 patients underwent fusion as a salvage procedure following TAA. Their mean age was 65.7 years (SD 10.6) and 73 (55.7%) were male. The mean follow-up was 47.5 months (SD 27.2). The mean time between TAA and fusion was 5.3 years (SD 2.7). Overall, 32 (24.4%) underwent reoperations other than revision and 29 (22.1%) failed. Of these 24 (18.3%) underwent revision of the fusion and five (3.8%) had a below-knee amputation. No patients underwent conversion to a further TAA. Failure usually occurred in the first three postoperative years with one-year survival of fusion being 96.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 90.7 to 98.3) and three-year survival in 69 patients being 77.5% (95% CI 68.3 to 84.4). Conclusion. Salvage fusion after a failed TAA shows moderate rates of failure and reoperations. Nearly 25% of patients required revision within three years. This study is an extension of studies using the same methodology reporting the failure rates and risk factors for failure, which have recently been published, and also one reporting the outcome of revision TAA for a failed primary TAA, using the same methodology, which will shortly be published. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(10):1094–1098

Aims. The purpose of this study was to assess the success rate and functional outcomes of bone grafting for periprosthetic bone cysts following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). Additionally, we evaluated the rate of graft incorporation and identified associated predisposing factors using CT scan. Methods. We reviewed a total of 37 ankles (34 patients) that had undergone bone grafting for periprosthetic bone cysts. A CT scan was performed one year after bone grafting to check the status of graft incorporation. For accurate analysis of cyst volumes and their postoperative changes, 3D-reconstructed CT scan processed with 3D software was used. For functional outcomes, variables such as the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale score and the visual analogue scale for pain were measured. Results. Out of 37 ankles, graft incorporation was successful in 30 cases. Among the remaining seven cases, four (10.8%) exhibited cyst re-progression, so secondary bone grafting was needed. After secondary bone grafting, no further progression has been noted, resulting in an overall 91.9% success rate (34 of 37) at a mean follow-up period of 47.5 months (24 to 120). The remaining three cases (8.1%) showed implant loosening, so tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis was performed. Functional outcomes were also improved after bone grafting in all variables at the latest follow-up (p < 0.05). The mean incorporation rate of the grafts according to the location of the cysts was 84.8% (55.2% to 96.1%) at the medial malleolus, 65.1% (27.6% to 97.1%) at the tibia, and 81.2% (42.8% to 98.7%) at the talus. Smoking was identified as a significant predisposing factor adversely affecting graft incorporation (p = 0.001). Conclusion. Bone grafting for periprosthetic bone cysts following primary TAA is a reliable procedure with a satisfactory success rate and functional outcomes. Regular follow-up, including CT scan, is important for the detection of cyst re-progression to prevent implant loosening after bone grafting. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(5):475–481

Aims. This study reports updates the previously published two-year clinical, functional, and radiological results of a group of patients who underwent transfibular total ankle arthroplasty (TAA), with follow-up extended to a minimum of five years. Methods. We prospectively evaluated 89 patients who underwent transfibular TAA for end-stage osteoarthritis. Patients’ clinical and radiological examinations were collected pre- and postoperatively at six months and then annually for up to five years of follow-up. Three patients were lost at the final follow-up with a total of 86 patients at the final follow-up. Results. A total of 86 patients were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 65.4 months (60 to 90). At five-year follow-up, statistically significant improvements (p < 0.001) were found in the mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle Hindfoot Score (from 33.8 (SD 14.3) to 86.1 (SD 8.8)), visual analogue scale for pain (from 8.5 (SD 1.7) to 1.5 (SD 1.2)), Short Form-12 Physical and Mental Component Scores (from 29.9 (SD 6.7) and 43.3 (SD 8.6) to 47.3 (SD 7.5) and 52.2 (SD 8.0), respectively), and mean ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion (from 6.2° (SD 5.5°) and 9.6° (SD 5.8°) to 23.9° (SD 7.7°) and 16.9° (SD 7.2°), respectively). Radiologically, the implants maintained neutral alignment without subsidence. Tibial or talar radiolucency was found in eight patients, but none of these patients was symptomatic. At five-year follow up, 97.7% of implants (95% confidence interval 91.2 to 99.4) were free from revision or removal with 84 implants at risk. We recorded two cases (2.3%) of failure for septic loosening. Conclusion. Transfibular TAA is safe and effective with a high survival rate at mid-term follow-up and satisfactory clinical and radiological results. Further studies are required to determine the long-term performance of these implants. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(4):472–478

Aims. Preoperative talar valgus deformity ≥ 15° is considered a contraindication for total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). We compared operative procedures and clinical outcomes of TAA in patients with talar valgus deformity ≥ 15° and < 15°. Methods. A matched cohort of patients similar for demographics and components used but differing in preoperative coronal-plane tibiotalar valgus deformity ≥ 15° (valgus, n = 50; 52% male, mean age 65.8 years (SD 10.3), mean body mass index (BMI) 29.4 (SD 5.2)) or < 15° (control, n = 50; 58% male, mean age 65.6 years (SD 9.8), mean BMI 28.7 (SD 4.2)), underwent TAA by one surgeon. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) pain and disability and 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) version 2 scores were collected prospectively. Ancillary procedures, secondary procedures, and complications were recorded. Results. At mean 5.1 years follow-up (SD 2.6) (valgus) and 6.6 years (SD 3.3) (controls), mean AOS scores decreased and SF-36 scores increased significantly in both groups. Improvements in scores were similar for both groups – AOS pain: valgus, mean 26.2 points (SD 24.2), controls, mean 22.3 points (SD 26.4); AOS disability: valgus, mean 41.2 points (SD 25.6); controls, mean 34.6 points (SD 24.3); and SF-36 PCS: valgus, mean 9.1 points (SD 14.1), controls, mean 7.4 points (SD 9.8). Valgus ankles underwent more ancillary procedures during TAA (40 (80%) vs 13 (26%)) and more secondary procedures postoperatively (18 (36%) vs 7 (14%)) than controls. Tibiotalar deformity improved significantly (p < 0.001) towards a normal weightbearing axis in valgus ankles. Three valgus and four control ankles required subsequent fusion, including two for deep infections (one in each group). Conclusion. Satisfactory mid-term results were achieved in patients with preoperative valgus malalignment ≥ 15°, but they required more adjunctive procedures during and after TAA. Valgus coronal-plane deformity ≥ 15° is not an absolute contraindication for TAA if associated deformities are addressed. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1689–1696

Aims. Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has become the most reliable surgical solution for patients with end-stage arthritis of the ankle. Aseptic loosening of the talar component is the most common complication. A custom-made artificial talus can be used as the talar component in a combined TAA for patients with poor bone stock of the talus. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functional and clinical outcomes of combined TAA. Patients and Methods. Ten patients (two men, eight women; ten ankles) treated using a combined TAA between 2009 and 2013 were matched for age, gender, and length of follow-up with 12 patients (one man, 11 women; 12 ankles) who underwent a standard TAA. All had end-stage arthritis of the ankle. The combined TAA features a tibial component of the TNK ankle (Kyocera, Kyoto, Japan) and an alumina ceramic artificial talus (Kyocera), designed using individualized CT data. The mean age at the time of surgery in the combined TAA and standard TAA groups was 71 years (. 61. to 82) and 75 years (62 to 82), respectively. The mean follow-up was 58 months (43 to 81) and 64 months (48 to 88), respectively. The outcome was assessed using the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) ankle-hindfoot scale, the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS), and the Self-Administered Foot Evaluation Questionnaire (SAFE-Q). Results. The mean preoperative JSSF score of the combined TAA and standard TAA groups was 44 (. sd. 11) and 49 (. sd. 10), respectively. The mean postoperative JSSF scores were 89 (. sd. 6.1) and 72 (. sd. 15), respectively. The mean postoperative JSSF score of the combined TAA group was significantly higher (p = 0.0034). The mean preoperative AOS scores for pain and function in the combined TAA and standard TAA groups were 5.8 (. sd. 3.3) and 5.5 (. sd. 3.1), and 8.6 (. sd. 1.3), and 7.1 (. sd. 2.9), respectively. The mean postoperative AOS scores of pain and function were 2.5 (. sd. 2.5) and 2.2 (. sd. 1.9), and 2.5 (. sd. 3.3) and 3.4 (. sd. 2.9), respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative AOS scores. The mean postoperative SAFE-Q scores were: for pain, 76 (. sd. 23) and 70 (. sd. 23); for physical function, 66 (. sd. 25) and 55 (. sd. 27); for social function, 73 (. sd. 35) and 62 (. sd. 34); for shoe-related, 73 (. sd. 19) and 65 (. sd. 26); and for general health, 78 (. sd. 28) and 67 (. sd. 29), respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative SAFE-Q scores. Conclusion. Combined TAA resulted in better clinical results than standard TAA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:443–446

Background. The literature on the outcome of revision total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) remains limited. We aim to report the clinical and radiological outcomes of revision TAA at a high-volume centre in the UK. Methods. Retrospective review of 28 patients that underwent 29 revision TAA procedures using INBONE II prosthesis. Demographic, radiological, and patient reported outcome measures data were analysed. Results. The mean (range) duration from primary TAA to revision was 87.5 (16–223) months. The main indication for the revision was aseptic loosening of the primary TAA (82.8%). Additional procedures were required in 75.9% of patients. At mean (range) follow-up of 40 (24- 60) months, the infection, re-operation, and implant survival rates were 6.9%, 6.9% and 96.5% respectively. A significant postoperative improvement in the component alignment radiographic measures was observed. Osteolysis, subsidence, loosening and heterotopic ossification rates were comparable to other reports and did not influence the clinical outcome. A significant improvement was observed in the MOXFQ (all domains) and the EQ-5D (three domains) at 24 months postoperatively. Conclusions. Revision TAA using INBONE II was associated with good short-term survival and improvement in the postoperative scores at 2 years. Maintenance of the postoperatively improved alignment was documented at follow up. The relatively high survival rate in this series supports the notion that revision TAA is a satisfactory option for failed primary TAA

Aims. To assess the effect of age on clinical outcome and revision rates in patients who underwent total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis (OA). Methods. A consecutive series of 811 ankles (789 patients) that underwent TAA between May 2003 and December 2013 were enrolled. The influence of age on clinical outcome, including the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, and pain according to the visual analogue scale (VAS) was assessed. In addition, the risk for revision surgery that includes soft tissue procedures, periarticular arthrodeses/osteotomies, ankle joint debridement, and/or inlay exchange (defined as minor revision), as well as the risk for revision surgery necessitating the exchange of any of the metallic components or removal of implant followed by ankle/hindfoot fusion (defined as major revision) was calculated. Results. A significant improvement in the AOFAS hindfoot score and pain relief between the preoperative assessment and the last follow-up was evident. Age had a positive effect on pain relief. The risk for a minor or major revision was 28.7 % at the mean follow-up of 5.4 years and 11.0 % at a mean follow-up of 6.9 years respectively. The hazard of revision was not affected by age. Conclusion. The clinical outcome, as well as the probability for revision surgery following TAA, is comparable between younger and older patients. The overall revision rate of the Hintegra total ankle is comparable with other three component designs. TAA should no longer be reserved for low demand elderly patients, but should also be recognized as a viable option for active patients of younger age. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):925–932

Introduction. Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is an increasingly popular treatment option for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis. However, for most implant systems, failure rates of 10–20% have been reported within the first 10 years after primary TAA. Pain is the primary symptom that indicates failure of TAA but cause of it can be difficult to establish. Methods. All patients who underwent a primary TAA at our center were included in the study. The clinical outcomes were studied for patients requiring a further revision procedure following primary TAA. The reasons for revision surgery and outcomes of surgery were analyzed using appropriate inferential statistical tests. Results. Between 2007 and 2018, 42 primary TAA required revisions in 40 patients. There were 25 men (59.5%) and 15 women (35.7%) with mean age of 57.5 years the time of primary TAA. All patients had undergone primary procedure at a mean duration of 3.5 years previously (range: 3 months to 10 years). Of the total revision procedures, 12/40 (30%) of revisions were carried out due to malalignment, 10/42 (23.8%) due to loosening of the implants or bone subsidence, 5/42 procedures (11.9%) following infection, 4/42 (9.5%) due to polyethylene migration, 1/42 (2.3%) due to fracture and 1/42 (2.3%) due to Charcot arthropathy. In 9/42 (21.4%) cases, imaging showed no objective reason for pain. 50% of patients who underwent revision TAA reported 78.5% satisfaction with results of surgery at 2 years follow up post-operatively. Conclusion. Major reasons for revising primary TAR at our centre are mal-alignment, implant loosening / bone subsidence and suspicion of infection and pain. In-spite of undergoing a complex revision surgery, patients report 78.5% satisfaction from outcomes of surgery

Revision options for a failed Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) have historically been limited to complex hindfoot fusions, bespoke ankle arthroplasty revision or amputation. The patient outcomes of these procedures has been felt to be poor. The introduction of the INBONE-II and INVISION ankle arthroplasty revision systems has created a range of revision arthroplasty options, with the possibility of improved patient outcomes. We aim to report on the early results of 20 sequential revision TAA. All patients undergoing revision TAA with INBONE-II or INVISION had prospective collection of pre-operative and post-operative MOx-FQ and EQ-5D scores. Between September 2013 and June 2019 23 patients underwent revision TAA with mean time from implantation of 35 months (6 to 74). Those with greater than 1 year follow-up had scores included. Other outcomes included radiographic assessment for loosening and revision. 13 patients had INBONE-II and 10 INVISION. None required revision at the time of review. Pre-operative MOx-FQ averaged 40.6 (13.4 pain, 21 walking, 6.2 social). Post-operative MOx-FQ averaged 17.4 (6.2 pain, 8.1 walking, 3.1 social). Average EQ-5D improved from 8 to 6.6 and average EQ-VAS from 60 to 80. On radiograph review one patient had radiolucent lines around their INBONE-II stem evident at 1 year. This had not progressed by 4 years total follow-up. Another patient had uncoupling of part of the stem of her INBONE-II but had not required revision. This was attributed to surgeon error. Revision TAA using the INBONE-II and INVISION systems shows promising early results relating to loosening and revision and good maintained improvement in MOx-FQ and EQ-5D scores. This provides further evidence that patients with a failed TAA can safely have revision rather than having to commit to complex ankle/hindfoot fusion. This provides surgeons with flexibility particularly in those patients with other hindfoot arthritis or arthrodesis

Aims. Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) surgery is complex and attracts a wide variety of complications. The literature lacks consistency in reporting adverse events and complications. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of each of these complications from a literature review, and to compare them with rates from our Unit, to aid clinicians with the process of informed consent. Patients and Methods. A total of 278 consecutive total ankle arthroplasties (251 patients), performed by four surgeons over a six-year period in Wrightington Hospital (Wigan, United Kingdom) were prospectively reviewed. There were 143 men and 108 women with a mean age of 64 years (41 to 86). The data were recorded on each follow-up visit. Any complications either during initial hospital stay or subsequently reported on follow-ups were recorded, investigated, monitored, and treated as warranted. Literature search included the studies reporting the outcomes and complications of TAA implants. Results. There were wound-healing problems in nine ankles (3.2%), superficial infection in 20 ankles (7.2%), and deep infection in six ankles (2.2%). Intraoperative fractures occurred in medial malleoli in 27 ankles (9.7%) and in lateral malleoli in four ankles (1.4%). Aseptic loosening and osteolysis were seen 16 ankles (5.8%). Fracture of the polyethylene component occurred in one ankle (0.4%) and edge-loading in seven ankles (2.5%). We observed medial gutter pain in 31 ankles (11.1%). The incidence of thromboembolism occurred in two ankles (0.7%). The results were found to be comparable to the previously reported complications of total ankle arthroplasty in the literature. Conclusion. Total ankle arthroplasty continues to evolve and improve the ankle function. Despite high overall complication rates with TAA surgery, most complications appear to be minor and do not affect final clinical outcome. Our results and literature review will help in the consent process and provide detailed complication rates for an informed consent. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1352–8

Aims. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) in patients with pre-operatively moderate and severe arthritic varus ankles to those achieved for patients with neutral ankles. Patients and Methods. A total of 105 patients (105 ankles), matched for age, gender, body mass index, and follow-up duration, were divided into three groups by pre-operative coronal plane tibiotalar angle; neutral (< 5°), moderate (5° to 15°) and severe (> 15°) varus deformity. American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, a visual analogue scale (VAS), and Short Form (SF)-36 score were used to compare the clinical outcomes after a mean follow-up period of 51 months (24 to 147). Results. The post-operative AOFAS, VAS scores, range of movement and complication rates did not significantly differ among three groups. However, there was less improvement in the SF-36 score of the severe varus group (p = 0.008). The mean post-operative tibiotalar alignment was 2.6° (0.1° to 8.9°), 3.1° (0.1° to 6.5°) and 4.6° (1.0° to 10.6°) in the neutral, moderate and severe groups respectively. Although the severe varus group showed less corrected alignment than the neutral group, the mean tibiotalar angles of the three groups were within neutral alignment. Conclusion. TAA for moderate and severe varus arthritic deformity showed similar satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes as those obtained by patients in the neutral group when post-operative neutral alignment was achieved. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1335–42

Aims. A failed total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is often associated with much bone loss. As an alternative to arthrodesis, the surgeon may consider a custom-made talar component to compensate for the bone loss. Our aim in this study was to assess the functional and radiological outcome after the use of such a component at mid- to long-term follow-up. Patients and Methods. A total of 12 patients (five women and seven men, mean age 53 years; 36 to77) with a failed TAA and a large talar defect underwent a revision procedure using a custom-made talar component. The design of the custom-made components was based on CT scans and standard radiographs, when compared with the contralateral ankle. After the anterior talocalcaneal joint was fused, the talar component was introduced and fixed to the body of the calcaneum. Results. At a mean follow-up of 6.9 years (1 to 13), 11 ankles were stable with no radiological evidence of loosening. Only one was lost to follow-up. The mean arc of movement was 21. °. (10. °. to 35. °. ). A total of nine patients (75%) were satisfied or very satisfied with the outcome, two (17%) were satisfied but with reservations and one (8%) was not satisfied. All but one patient had an improvement in the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score (p = 0.01). Just one patient developed deep infection, leading to arthrodesis. Conclusion. A custom-made talar component yielded satisfactory results with regard to function, stability and satisfaction. This should encourage the use of such components as an alternative to arthrodesis of the ankle in patients with a failed TAA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:231–6

The last decade has seen a considerable increase in the use of in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) to treat patients with end-stage arthritis of the ankle. However, the longevity of the implants is still far from that of total knee and hip arthroplasties. . The aim of this review is to outline a diagnostic and treatment algorithm for the painful TAA to be used when considering revision surgery. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:5–11

Aims. The aim of this study was to present a series of patients with aseptic failure of a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) who were treated with fusion of the hindfoot using a nail. Patients and Methods. A total of 23 TAAs, in 22 patients, were revised for aseptic loosening and balloon osteolysis to a hindfoot fusion by a single surgeon (NH) between January 2012 and August 2014. The procedure was carried out without bone graft using the Phoenix, Biomet Hindfoot Arthrodesis Nail. Preoperative investigations included full blood count, CRP and ESR, and radiological investigations including plain radiographs and CT scans. Postoperative plain radiographs were assessed for fusion. When there was any doubt, CT scans were performed. Results. The mean follow-up was 13.9 months (4.3 to 37.2). Union occurred at the tibiotalar joint in 22 ankles (95.6%) with one partial union. Union occurred at the subtalar joint in 20 ankles (87%) of cases with two nonunions. The nail broke in one patient with a subtalar nonunion and revision was undertaken. The only other noted complication was one patient who suffered a stress fracture at the proximal aspect of the nail, which was satisfactorily treated conservatively. Conclusion. This study represents the largest group of patients reported to have undergone revision TAA to fusion of the hindfoot with good results. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:475–9

Background. Revision total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) can be extremely challenging due to bone loss and deformity. We present the results examining the preliminary indications and short term outcomes for the use of the Salto XT revision prosthesis. Material and methods. We conducted an IRB approved prospective review revision TAA performed in two institutions using the Salto XT. There were 40 patients (24 females and 16 males with an average age of 65 years (45–83), who had undergone previous TAA (Agility 27, Salto 4, STAR 4, Buechal Pappas 1), and 4 patients who underwent staged procedures for infection. The primary indications for the revision were loosening and subsidence (34), malalignment (17), cyst formation (8), infection (4). Results. Severe bone loss of the talus (30) and distal tibia (5) caused by erosion or cysts (8) were treated with cancellous bone graft (33), cement (7), or a combination (12). A press fit of the tibial component was obtained in 25 cases, and of the talus in 17. The talar component was seated directly onto the calcaneus in 4 cases supplemented anteriorly by cancellous bone graft. Patients were followed up for an average of 24.2 months (range 12–36 months). The overall complication rate was 25%. An 85% survivorship of the revision TAA was achieved (4 cases of postoperative infection and 2 cases of implant loosening). At the last follow-up visit, the remaining 34 implants were stable and none had loosened nor failed. Conclusion. Revision ankle replacement with bone loss is a technically challenging procedure with acceptable outcomes for the patient but an 85% survivorship even in the short term. We noted the complexity yet feasibility of performing revision TAA, and determined that the stability of the prosthesis was important. The short term survivorship indicates a likely higher rate of failure in the longer term

Introduction. This project reports differences in outcome measures after total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) for patients with Osteoarthritis (OA), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Post-traumatic Osteoarthritis (PTOA). Materials and Methods. Patients who underwent TAA between March 2006 and May 2010 were included. Assessments including questionnaires (height, weight, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, SF-36) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) were completed pre-operatively, 3, 6, and 12-months after surgery. Analyses of outcomes by diagnosis were adjusted for age, gender and BMI. Results. A total of 114 TAAs performed for OA (59), PTOA (35), and RA (20). OA patients were significantly older than PTOA (64 vs. 56, p=0.002) and more likely to be male than either RA or PTOA (78% vs. 35% and 54%, p=0.001). PTOA and OA patients had significantly higher BMI (30 and 29) than RA (25, p=0.002). There were significant improvements at 12-months for AOFAS scores for all groups 31 to 75 (OA), 29 to 77 (PTOA) and 24 to 80 (RA). No significant difference in AOFAS scores between the groups at any time. Despite no significant difference in preoperative patient-reported measures between groups, OA patients reported worse ankle-related pain and function outcomes compared to the RA and PTOA patients. This trend increases at each follow-up period and was significant at 1-year for pain (p=0.03) and function (p=0.018). PTOA patients had significantly better SF-36 scores at 1 year (p<0.05 for 5 domains). Conclusion. These early results comparing outcomes by diagnostic groups demonstrate that PTOA and RA patients have superior outcomes compared to patients with primary OA

Introduction. Postoperative pain following the 3 component ankle arthroplasty (AA) (Mobility™) is a recognised problem without any apparent cause. This study aimed to determine pattern of postoperative pain following Total Ankle Arthroplasty (TAA) and its management options. Materials and methods. In prospective observational study 167 patients who had (AA) and minimum follow-up of 24 months were included. FAOS ankle score, patients' satisfaction, SF36 and diagrammatic mapping of postoperative pain among other parameters were collected preoperatively and postoperatively at 3 months, 6 months and the annually. 20 Patients (12%) had moderate to severe postoperative ankle pain following the ankle arthroplasty. Results. Most of patients with mild pain and low AOFAS score during first year improved by the 2 year review. The pain was localised to the medial aspect of the ankle in 10 patients, lateral side in 8 patients, and both medial and lateral side in 1 patient and global in 1 patient with complex regional pain syndrome. 8 patients with medial or lateral pain needed a re-operation. 5 patients with medial pain were treated by complete release of deltoid ligament along with bony decompression of the medial compartment. None of the above implants were loose intra-operatively. 2 AA with lateral pain needed subtalar arthrodesis. 1 patient needed removal of metalwork from the calcaneum for relief of symptoms. A significant improvement of pain and AOFAS scores was observed in 3 out of the 5 patients who underwent medial compartment decompression and both patients who underwent subtalar arthrodesis. Conclusion. There are 10–13% of low AOFAS scores following Ankle Arthroplasty due to pain. In our series, the pain did not co-relate to implant loosening. Our treatment protocol of mapping of pain and re-do surgery could improve the long term outcome in a significant proportion of the patients