The Effects of Suprastructural Deformity on Hindfoot and Ankle Reconstruction.

Rearfoot and ankle deformities can be caused both secondary to distal foot deformities as well as suprastructural deformities. Suprastructural deformities include deformity at the tibia, knee, femur, or hip and can significantly alter weight-bearing mechanical forces at the level of the rearfoot and ankle. The mechanical axis of the limb is a useful radiographic measurement not only to diagnose suprastructural deformity but also to appropriately align the limb relative to the weight-bearing forces. Appropriate alignment can prevent reoperation, adjacent joint deformity or pain, and total ankle implant failure.