A total ankle replacement is indicated for some patients who suffer from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or arthritis caused by a prior trauma, such as a broken bone. During an ankle replacement procedure, an incision is made along the front of the ankle and the damaged bone surfaces are removed. These surfaces are then replaced with plastic and metal devices called prostheses. This type of surgery is recommended for patients who do not plan to participate in any high-impact activities post-surgery. There are two-component and three-component prosthesis systems available, each allowing for different amounts of motion.
Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR)
The STAR system is a three-component system, designed to mimic normal ankle movement and function. This system includes pieces to cover the distal tibia, the talus and a mobile bearing placed between the two surfaces to promote near-normal ankle motion. The STAR ankle is not attached with cement, which allows for bone preservation and better bone growth.
Inbone Total Ankle Replacement
The Inbone ankle consists of two components, a tibial component and a talar component. The tibial component is a high-strength polyethylene piece secured with a titanium holder. A long titanium stem secures this component into the tibia. The talar component is an anatomically shaped, highly polished cobalt chrome piece that also is attached by a stem into the talus. This prosthesis is designed so that the smooth surfaces create a fluid movement in the ankle joint.
Salto Talaris Total Ankle Prosthesis
This two component system mimics the anatomy and the flexion and extension movements of the natural ankle joint. The Salto Talaris is available in four sizes of each the tibial and talar components for both the right and left ankles. This prosthesis is fixed to the patient with a hollow plug and three bone cuts to allow for minimal bone removal.
