Replacing the fusion: Conversion of an ankle arthrodesis to a total ankle arthroplasty

A painful ankle arthrodesis, whether from malunion, nonunion, or the development of adjacent hindfoot arthritis, can be a difficult problem for the patient and treating surgeon. Several surgical options are available, however, conversion of the arthrodesis to a total ankle replacement offers the potential for restoration of some degree of ankle motion, reduced pain, and improved overall patient function. This concept of an ankle arthrodesis takedown to total ankle replacement and the surgical technique are reviewed here in detail, along with relevant complications, available outcomes data, and the future of the technique. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Duke Scholars

Author Karl Martin Schweitzer Orthopaedic Surgery