Modern concepts of diagnosis and treatment of patients with ankle osteoarthritis

Ankle osteoarthritis, or ankle OA, is a chronic condition that, despite its relatively low prevalence, has a substantial impact on patient quality of life. This review article examines current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to ankle OA, emphasizing its prevalence among the active, working-age population, as this condition often develops following trauma. The article reviews conservative management strategies, including pharmacotherapy and physiotherapy, alongside emerging cellular therapies such as mesenchymal stem cells and growth factors. Additionally, it discusses innovative surgical techniques, including arthroscopic procedures, osteotomy, and total ankle replacement, which aim to enhance patient quality of life and reduce socioeconomic costs. The authors propose a differentiated approach at each treatment stage, aimed at improving treatment outcomes and slowing disease progression, an approach that is particularly beneficial for younger and middle-aged patients.Key words: ankle joint, osteoarthritis, ankle osteoarthritis, stem cells.