¹Kim J, ²Meyer C, ²Cooperman S, ²Martinez O, ²Berlet G
¹Orthopedic foot and ankle center , Worthington, OH, United states; ²Orthopedic foot and ankle center, Worthington, Ohio, USA

Ankle arthritis, often resulting from post-traumatic, rheumatologic, or structural etiologies, is traditionally managed with arthrodesis, which can lead to significant long-term complications. Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has emerged as a promising alternative, particularly for failed ankle fusions, offering improved mobility and pain relief. This meta-analysis evaluates the outcomes of converting failed ankle fusions to TAA, synthesizing data on functional scores, pain relief, complications, and patient satisfaction. The analysis revealed significant improvements in AOFAS functional scores (mean difference: +35.6) and substantial reductions in VAS pain scores (mean difference: -14.3), with a high patient satisfaction rate of 88%. With this meta analysis, the surgeon can quote complication rates to prospective ankle fusion take down patients of 13% intraoperative fractures, 11% delayed wound healing, 3% tendon injuries, 11% symptomatic arthrofibrosis, and 10% persistent pain requiring revision or proximal amputation. Variability in outcomes was influenced by implant type and publication year, with more recent studies showing larger improvements. Despite the complexity of the procedure, the results support ankle fusion takedown and conversion to TAA as an effective revision strategy for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis, although further research is needed to refine surgical techniques and implant selection.

trxutfx