Treatment of post-traumatic ankle arthrosis with bipolar tibiotalar osteochondral shell allografts

Foot Ankle Int. 2002 Dec;23(12):1091-102. doi: 10.1177/107110070202301203.

Abstract

We report on tibiotalar osteochondral shell allografts for post-traumatic ankle arthropathy in seven patients. Average follow-up was 148 months (range, 85 to 198). Patients were evaluated by a questionnaire, SF-12 survey, ankle score, physical exam and radiographs. The ankle score increased from 25 preoperatively to 43 at latest follow-up (maximum score 100). SF-12 scores increased from 30 to 38 (Physical Component) and 46 to 53 (Mental Component). The failure rate was 42%. Four of seven patients reported good or excellent results. Five patients stated they would undergo a similar procedure again. Complications included graft fragmentation, poor graft fit, graft subluxation, and non-union. Follow-up radiographs demonstrated joint space narrowing, osteophytes, and sclerosis, even in cases with excellent clinical status. Fresh osteochondral shell allografting may provide a viable alternative for the treatment of post-traumatic ankle arthrosis in selected individuals.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Ankle Injuries / complications
  • Ankle Joint / surgery*
  • Bone Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Cadaver
  • Cartilage, Articular / transplantation*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Joint Diseases / etiology
  • Joint Diseases / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged