[Severe soft tissue and bone injuries of the distal lower leg and foot: indications for arthrodesis or joint replacement].

The results of ankle joint arthroplasty are disencouraging. Replacement is only justified, when there is no infect or instability and axial deviations below 20%. After fusion in 80% release of pain, more than 50% unlimited walking and only 10% the severe walking restriction is seen. Therefore this treatment can be recommended in posttraumatic tarsal osteoarthritis.