Total ankle replacement in rheumatoid arthritis.

We reviewed 21 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had a total ankle replacement between 1984 and 2000. The average follow-up was 72 (15-169) months. Clinical results were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. At the latest review, three ankles had been revised. Two ankles were excellent, seven good, three fair, and 12 poor. Eleven patients with 13 ankles had residual pain, with radiographs showing a high incidence of radiolucent lines. Migration of the tibial component was seen in 13 ankles and collapse of talus in nine. Although clinical results were poor, patient satisfaction was not.