Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis after failed total ankle replacement: Metallic 3D printed custom cages
Total ankle replacement failure continues to occur and there are limited choices for revision ankle replacement. Severe loss of bone stock of the talus, and sometimes the tibia or both bones, is the most important indication for salvage tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with a custom metallic 3D implant. The use of a custom implant affords several advantages over traditional approaches, such as a femoral head allograft, including infinite geometry, almost boundless sizes to accommodate bone loss, and custom design features. However, there is limited data on the use of custom 3D printed implants. Therefore, caution must be taken when entertaining the use of this new technology. Careful planning involving the surgeon and design engineers should occur. Consultation with a surgeon who has performed the technique will also be helpful.
