Ankle joint distraction.

Ankle joint distraction is a viable alternative to ankle arthrodesis or ankle replacement. A congruent, painful, mobile, and arthritic ankle joint that is treated with this technique can achieve good to excellent results. Attention to the principles (anterior osteophyte resection, equinus contracture release, and ankle joint realignment procedures) is as important for a successful outcome as the accurate application of the hinged ankle joint distraction technique itself.