The effect of accuracy of implantation on range of movement of the Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement

J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2005 May;87(5):736-40. doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.87B5.14872.

Abstract

When performing the Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR), the positioning of the talar component and the selection of mobile-bearing thickness are critical. A biomechanical experiment was undertaken to establish the effects of these variables on the range of movement (ROM) of the ankle. Six cadaver ankles containing a specially-modified STAR prosthesis were subjected to ROM determination, under weight-bearing conditions, while monitoring the strain in the peri-ankle ligaments. Each specimen was tested with the talar component positions in neutral, as well as 3 and 6 mm of anterior and posterior displacement. The sequence was repeated with an anatomical bearing thickness, as well as at 2 mm reduced and increased thicknesses. The movement limits were defined as 10% strain in any ligament, bearing lift-off from the talar component or limitations of the hardware. Both anterior talar component displacement and bearing thickness reduction caused a decrease in plantar flexion, which was associated with bearing lift-off. With increased bearing thickness, posterior displacement of the talar component decreased plantar flexion, whereas anterior displacement decreased dorsiflexion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Ankle Joint / physiopathology
  • Ankle Joint / surgery*
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement / methods*
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Cadaver
  • Foot / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Joint Instability / physiopathology
  • Joint Prosthesis
  • Middle Aged
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Range of Motion, Articular / physiology*
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Talus / physiopathology
  • Weight-Bearing / physiology