Minimum distraction gap: how much ankle joint space is enough in ankle distraction arthroplasty?

ABSTRACT:

Background

The success of ankle distraction arthroplasty relies on the separation of the tibiotalar articular surfaces.

Question/purpose

The purpose of this study was to find the minimum distraction gap needed to ensure that the tibiotalar joint surfaces would not contact each other with full weight-bearing while under distraction.

Methods

Circular external fixators were mounted to nine cadaver ankle specimens. Each specimen was then placed into a custom-designed load chamber. Loads of 0, 350, and 700N were applied to the specimen. Radiographic joint space was measured and joint contact pressure was monitored under each load. The external fixator was then sequentially distracted, and the radiographic joint space was measured under the three different loads. The experi

SUBMITTER: Fragomen AT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3903950 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature