EXPERIENCE OF ANKLE JOINT REPLACEMENT

Abstract

Background. Study immediate and long-term results following ankle joint endoprosthesis.

Materials and Methods. During the period from 2013 to 2016, we performed 26 ankle joint endoprostheses in patients aged from 19 up to 78 years with arthroses of various etiology. The average operative time was 1,6 hours. Average blood loss was 200 ml. There were 3 cases with an intraoperative fracture of an internal anklebone and they required additional synthesis by one or two screws. In the postoperative period one patient developed some regional necrosis in the postoperative wound area. Developed complications had no impact on observed positive results.

Results. In 24 cases of 26 (92.3%) patients were satisfied with surgery results. In 18 of those (69.2%) the volume of postoperative movements significantly increased, but remained less normal. In 3 cases (11.5%) the volume of movements remained at the preoperative limited level, however the pain syndrome while walking was completely stopped. In 3 patients (11.5%) who had no restrictions in movement amplitude neither prior to nor after the operation, the pain syndrome was also stopped. In 92.3% cases the positive results of ankle joint replacement were received. In 2 cases (7.7%) the received results were estimated as unsatisfactory because of deformation and the remaining pain syndrome. We continue observing patients.

Conclusion. Ankle joint replacement with modern implants allows to achieve the positive immediate and long-term results in 92.3% cases and it is a hi-tech alternative to arthrodesis procedures.