Abstract

Objective: This longitudinal study aims to compare the outcomes of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) and ankle arthrodesis (fusion) in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis, focusing on functional outcomes, complication rates, and patient satisfaction over a prolonged follow-up period.

Background: End-stage ankle arthritis significantly impairs quality of life and mobility, necessitating surgical intervention to alleviate pain and restore function. TAA and ankle arthrodesis are established surgical options, each with distinct advantages and considerations. TAA aims to preserve joint motion and potentially mitigate adjacent joint degeneration, while ankle arthrodesis provides reliable pain relief and stability by fusing the joint.

Methods: A comprehensive review of patients undergoing either TAA or ankle arthrodesis for end-stage ankle arthritis was conducted. Data from longitudinal studies, cohort analyses, and retrospective reviews were analyzed to assess clinical outcomes, including pain relief, functional improvement, revision rates, and complications such as infection and implant-related issues.

Results: Preliminary findings indicate that both TAA and ankle arthrodesis effectively reduce pain and improve function in patients with end-stage ankle arthritis. TAA demonstrates advantages in terms of preserving motion and potentially reducing stress on adjacent joints, whereas ankle arthrodesis offers greater reliability in achieving pain relief and joint stability. Complication rates vary between the two procedures, with TAA associated with higher risks of implant-related complications, while ankle arthrodesis may lead to nonunion or malunion in some cases.

Conclusion: This longitudinal study provides valuable insights into the comparative outcomes of TAA versus ankle arthrodesis for end-stage ankle arthritis. The findings underscore the importance of patient-specific factors, including age, activity level, and pre-existing conditions, in selecting the optimal surgical intervention. Continued research and longer-term follow-up studies are essential to further elucidate the durability, functional outcomes, and complication profiles of these surgical options.