Protesi di caviglia ad isometria legamentosa a 3 componenti vs. protesi di caviglia dal disegno anatomico a 2 componenti: valutazione clinica, radiografica e funzionale.

INTRODUCTION New generation total ankle replacement have shown increasing attention to articular anatomy and physiology, with better results over time. In literature there are no comparative studies on different implants. The aim of this study is therefore to compare two total ankle replacement models from the clinical, radiographic and functional point of view. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients treated with a two component anatomical design total ankle replacement were prospectively enrolled, then evaluated clinically, radiographically and functionally at the last follow-up. Data were compared with similar evaluations performed on patients treated with a three component total ankle replacement compatible with ligament function and with a healthy control group. For the clinical evaluation AOFAS score and VAS pain scale were considered. X-rays standard views were evaluated. The functional evaluation was carried out by gait analysis. RESULTS Clinical parameters showed a statistically significant improvement in both groups at the last follow-up, without differences between the two groups. From the radiographic point of view, no alterations were seen in the two groups. Gait analysis showed similar features both in terms of speed progression and joint excursion between the two groups and parameters totally compatible with daily activities. However, the healthy control group showed superior clinical and functional features. CONCLUSIONS Despite the positive results, the comparison with a healthy population still reveals some differences, therefore it is advisable to continue looking for innovative solutions as well as with prospective randomized studies