Total ankle replacement: characteristics and outcomes of the operation (literature review)

Background: Total ankle replacement is a modern and efficient operation. At present, third-generation three-component ankle endoprostheses are actively used, which, against the background of the previous models and arthrodesis, give obviously better results. The purpose of this article: To reflect the benefits of total ankle replacement, the main features of the perioperative period, show the major complications of the postoperative period, to provide information on the survival of different implant models. Materials: The literature was reviewed mainly over the past 10 years in such databases as PubMed , Google Scholar , eLIBRARY . The complication rate and survivourship of prostheses are supplemented by data from national registries in a number of countries. Results: Among the obvious advantages of the method over the arthrodesis are preservation of the range of motion, restoration of limb function, faster recovery of weight-bearing function of the operated limb. The main complications include periprosthetic infection, aseptic loosening of the implant components, implant breakdown, component migration, impingement syndrome and periprosthetic fracture, problems of wound regeneration, cyst formation, limb axis disorders, deep vein thrombosis, chronic pain and heterotopic ossification . The survival rate of implants is 81-97.7% for a period of 5 years after surgery, 69-86% for a period of 10 years and depends on the specific model of the prosthesis. Conclusion: After performing TAR, both the surgeon and the patient get a good result – restoration of range of motion, pain relief, restoration of normal biomechanics of the lower limb and an improvement of patients’ quality of life.