Distraction arthroplasty in osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle.

Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is a complex and painful problem in the foot and ankle. Ninety percent of osteoarthritis cases in the foot and ankle can be classified as post-traumatic. PTOA can affect any of the 33 joints in the foot and the ankle. Distraction arthroplasty is a method for treatment of early arthritic joints without fusing or replacing them and its effectiveness has been well documented. The purpose of this case series is to present our successful experiences and positive results using distraction arthroplasty to treat PTOA in the ankle, subtalar, first metatarsophalangeal, and second tarsometatarsal joints, and to present distraction arthroplasty as a viable alternative to invasive joint sacrificing procedures such as arthrodesis or arthroplasty. Distraction Arthroplasty effectively and safely treats PTOA and improves the stability of joints in the Foot and Ankle. Additionally, the use of bone marrow aspirate concentrate as an adjuvant can improve the long-term functional and structural outcomes of the joint, and can prolong the need for further, more aggressive surgical interventions such as fusion or arthroplasty.