Planning of a Primary Total Ankle Arthroplasty

Appropriate understanding of the ankle to be replaced is paramount for a successful total ankle arthroplasty. Standard radiographs are mandatory to assess deformities and osteoarthritic changes in adjacent joints. Weight-bearing CT scans provide additional information about segmental changes and osteoarthritic changes in the adjacent joints. Addressing associated deformities by osteotomies or resection cuts and appropriately sizing the implants are mandatory for getting a balanced ankle. Additional ligamentous work is often necessary to obtain a stable and balanced ankle for release or reconstruction.