Supramalleolar Osteotomies for the Treatment of Ankle Arthritis.

Supramalleolar osteotomy is a joint-preserving surgical treatment for patients with asymmetric valgus or varus ankle arthritis. The primary goal of the procedure is to realign the spatial relationship between the talus and tibia and thereby normalize joint loading within the ankle. Procedures to balance the soft tissues, as well as hindfoot osteotomy and arthrodesis, may also be necessary. Clinical studies of supramalleolar osteotomy demonstrate that correction of the altered biomechanics associated with asymmetric arthritis improves functional outcomes.