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- Talk
- 15/09/2021
- Canada
Does Sagittal Tibiotalar Alignment of TAR Predict Failure?
Description
In this presentation, Anna-Kathrin Leucht addresses the importance of sagittal tibiotalar alignment in predicting the failure of total ankle replacements. She starts by thanking the audience and introducing the topic, suggesting a strong correlation between proper alignment and long-term outcomes of ankle arthroplasties. Previous studies have indicated that deviations in alignment can lead to unfavorable stress on the joint components, thereby affecting the longevity of the implant.
The primary aim of the study is to determine a specific sagittal radiographic measurement indicative of failure post-surgery. Leucht elaborates on the methodology, which involved a retrospective analysis of a cohort of patients who underwent total ankle replacement at a single institution over a seven-year period. The analysis included two designs of ankle implants: the Saito Talaris and the STAR system.
Several key metrics were evaluated using postoperative weight-bearing X-rays, including the sagittal distal tibial articular angle (sDTAA), lateral talar station (LTS), and gamma angle, each serving as indicators of alignment and potential failure types such as clinical, radiological, and sagittal failures. The results revealed a statistically significant association between increased LTS measurements and the occurrence of clinical failures, alongside correlations with sDTAA failures. However, no notable links were found between LTS and gamma angle failures or radiological failures.
Furthermore, Leucht discusses the limitations of the study, emphasizing its retrospective nature and potential variability in the impact of alignment on different implant designs.
In conclusion, the findings suggest that an increased lateral talar station could be a predictor of clinical failure in patients with total ankle replacements. This study may have implications for surgical techniques and postoperative monitoring to enhance patient outcomes.