Management of Ankle Arthritis: Joint-Preserving and Joint-Sacrificing Strategies

The disability caused by ankle arthritis is notable. The challenges in management of ankle joint degeneration are attributed to greater load transmission during activity and unique joint kinematics when compared with the hip and knee. Furthermore, characteristics of ankle cartilage pose unique challenges when compared with other weight-bearing joints. Joint-sacrificing procedures dominated historic management of ankle joint arthritis. In this review, both joint-preserving and joint-sacrificing techniques will be discussed.