CEMENTLESS TOTAL ANKLE ARTHROPLASTY FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS WITH AVASCULAR NECROSIS OF THE TALAR BODY TWO CASE REPORTS AND A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

To date nine cases treated by cementless total ankle arthroplasty for avascular necrosis of the talar body have been described in the English literature. However, these reports show high complication rates including collapse of the talar component, and as a result cementless total ankle replacement is not recommended for the treatment of avascular necrosis of the talar body. The authors report two cases of ankle osteoarthritis with avascular necrosis of the talar body that were treated by cementless mobile bearing total ankle arthroplasty, because preoperative magnetic resonance images and radionuclide bone scanning showed revascularization of the talus. Recent follow-up plain radiographs of ankles showed no loosening or subsidence. The authors conclude that cementless total ankle arthroplasty for the treatment of avascular necrosis of the talar body is likely to be successful if necrotic bone has healed by creeping substitution and has enough strength to support an implant.