What is ankle osteoarthritis?

Crurarthrosis is a degenerative disease of the ankle joint with destruction of the cartilage coating. Unlike knee and hip osteoarthritis, it is post-traumatic in 80% of cases — it develops after ankle fractures and ligament injuries.

Surgical treatment includes arthrodesis (joint fusion) or joint replacement. Arthrodesis completely eliminates mobility, while the ankle prosthesis is less reliable than those for the knee or hip.

Causes:

Post-traumatic (80%) — after fractures, dislocations
Chronic instability — recurrent subluxations
Osteochondral lesion — cartilage defect of the talus
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Foot deformity — flatfoot, varus

Symptoms:

Pain when walking, especially on uneven surfaces
Joint swelling by the end of the day
Morning stiffness
Limited dorsiflexion of the foot
Limping during exacerbations

How regenerative treatment treats crurarthrosis

MRI diagnostics

MRI determines the stage of osteoarthritis, osteochondral lesions, and ligament condition. Feasibility of regenerative treatment is assessed.

Obtaining concentrates

CGF — chondrogenic and anti-inflammatory factors. MFAT — stem cells for cartilage and ligament regeneration.

Intra-articular injection

Under Ultrasound guidance navigation, concentrates are injected into the joint cavity, osteochondral defects, and damaged ligaments.

Cartilage regeneration

Stem cells restore the cartilage coating and ligaments. Result — pain reduction, improved mobility, postponement of arthrodesis.

Regenerative method Advantages

A broad range of indications

Regenerative methods are used for many orthopaedic and spinal conditions. Some cases still call for surgery.

No anesthesia or incisions

Outpatient treatment via 0.3-1.5 mm puncture. No general anesthesia or hospitalization.

No age restrictions

Regeneration at any age. Safe for chronic conditions and anesthesia intolerance.

Rapid improvement

Concentrates have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Relief within days.

Multiple zones at once

Simultaneous treatment of multiple discs or joints in one procedure.

Home the same day

No crutches, braces or rehabilitation needed. MRI follow-up at 8-16 weeks.

Regenerative treatment Technology

Navigation system

Intraoperative robotic navigation system. Provides precise access to deep structures with 1 mm and 1 degree accuracy.

Ultrasound guidance

Device for intervention under sonographic control. Eliminates open surgeries with real-time visual monitoring.

More about technologies →

Frequently Asked Questions about Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis

Can regenerative treatment replace arthrodesis?

In stages I-III, regenerative methods can be an alternative, preserving joint mobility. Cartilage regeneration reduces pain and delays the need for arthrodesis for years. In stage IV with complete cartilage destruction, the effect is limited.

Will it help with osteochondral injury?

Yes. Osteochondral injuries of the talus are one of the best indications. Stem cells fill the cartilage and subchondral bone defect, restoring the joint surface. This is an alternative to mosaicplasty and microfracturing.

How quickly can one walk without pain?

Pain reduction — within 1-2 weeks. Significant improvement in walking — within 4-8 weeks. Full effect — within 3-6 months. Orthopedic insoles complement the result.

Treatment Compare Methods Cost

Clinic and method matching — free of charge

Describe your case and attach your MRI report. We will identify clinics that use the relevant methods and forward your request to them. No obligation; we reply within two working days.

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