Total ankle replacements: an overview.

One of the most widely debated topics amongst foot and ankle surgeons is the treatment of end stage arthritis. With the advent of the newer generation of total ankle replacement (TAR), a viable option over an arthrodesis is now available for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis. When compared with an ankle arthroplasty, recent reports suggest the ankle arthrodesis has poor long-term outcomes (20 years+) and can experience short- and long-term complications. Proper training, strict patient selection, and proper implant contribute to a successful outcome. As advances continue to be made in both implant design and surgical technique, the benefits of a TAR appears to provide the foot and ankle surgeon a good alternative for the appropriate patient.