Total Ankle Replacement: Indications, Rehabilitation and Results

Abstract

Even though fusion is the main form of treatment for end-stage osteoarthritis (OA) of the ankle, total ankle replacement (TAR) is increasingly being recognized as an effective alternative procedure, with favorable clinical results and improved quality of life. However, the results have been disappointing compared to those of hip and knee arthroplasty. In fact, the ankle is a more complex joint and its biomechanics and kinematics are strongly influenced by neighboring joints.