Preclinical Biomechanical Testing Models for the Tibiotalar Joint and Its Replacements: A Systematic Review

Prior to the advent of total ankle joint replacements, fusion was the only option available for the relief of pain and partial restoration of function. One theoretical benefit of total ankle replacement (TAR) over arthrodesis is lowering the probability of developing osteoarthritis in adjacent joints, which may occur in patients treated with fusions [2 –4]. In addition to avoiding the potential risks of osteoarthritis in neighboring joints, biomechanical gait studies have found that, compared to fused ankles, ankles implanted with TAR produce kinematics that more closely resemble a healthy ankle [5].
Source: Foot and Ankle Surgery - Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research