Innovative Lateral Approach in Total Ankle Replacement Demonstrates Long-Term Success
A groundbreaking lateral approach in total ankle replacement shows excellent long-term outcomes and implant durability, offering new hope for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis.
A recent clinical study led by Dr. Lew C. Schon at Mercy Medical Center has showcased promising results for a novel surgical technique in total ankle replacement. Unlike traditional methods that often use an anterior approach, this study utilizes a unique lateral (transfibular) method, which involves cutting the outer fibula to better align and stabilize the joint, offering a direct and more natural restoration of ankle function.
Dr. Schon, who is also the co-inventor of the Zimmer Biomet Trabecular Metal Total Ankle Replacement, presented data highlighting the durability and effectiveness of this approach over a minimum of five years, with follow-up on 130 patients. Remarkably, none of these patients required revision surgery or removal of the implant components during 5 to 12 years of follow-up, indicating a high level of implant survivorship.
The innovative implant design features a bone-conserving, curved shape made from advanced materials like highly cross-linked polyethylene and tantalum trabecular metal. The latter promotes bone in-growth due to its porosity, enhancing long-term stability. The lateral surgical approach allows the surgeon to reshape and align the joint more precisely while preserving more of the patient’s high-density bone, which supports the implant.
Importantly, the study found that this technique and implant system perform well across different age groups, including patients under 55, who traditionally face higher failure rates with other systems. While normal daily activities are encouraged post-surgery, high-impact activities such as running or jumping are discouraged to preserve implant longevity.
Overall, the findings suggest that the Zimmer Biomet lateral approach ankle replacement offers a durable and reliable solution for end-stage ankle arthritis, with minimal signs of implant loosening or radiolucency at mid-term follow-up, promising a significant advancement in ankle arthroplasty.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-total-ankle-unique-lateral-approach.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Early Opioid Treatment Significantly Reduces Hospitalizations in Children with Sickle Cell Crises
Timely administration of opioids within the emergency department significantly decreases hospitalization rates for children suffering from sickle cell crises, emphasizing the importance of rapid pain management.
Innovative Spider-Inspired Magnetic Soft Robots for Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Procedures
A team of researchers has developed bio-inspired magnetic soft robots, modeled after spiders, capable of navigating the complex environment of the gastrointestinal tract for minimally invasive medical procedures.
Rise in Alcohol-Related Liver Disease: A Sharp Increase Over Two Decades
A new study reveals that alcohol-related liver disease has more than doubled over the past 20 years in the United States, highlighting demographic shifts and the need for targeted interventions. Learn how changing patterns of alcohol use increase liver health risks.
Innovative Radiotheranostic Strategy Targets Aggressive Cancers
UCLA researchers have developed a targeted radiotheranostic approach using engineered antibodies to detect and treat aggressive, treatment-resistant tumors like osteosarcoma and glioblastoma, potentially revolutionizing cancer care with precise imaging and therapy.