Sex Differences in Patient-Reported Outcomes and Range of Motion After Total Ankle Arthroplasty

Abstract

Background

As the popularity of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) increases, there is a growing need to examine the effects of sex on postoperative outcomes. This study compares patient-reported outcome measures and ankle range of motion (ROM) in the postoperative period, as stratified by sex.

Methods

Patients who underwent TAA during 2013 to 2018 with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were included (N = 133). American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and 12-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-12) were administered preoperatively and at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. ROM was recorded at these same time points.

Results

Preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively, the cohorts did not differ in any of the measured outcomes. At 1 year postoperatively, females had lower SF-12 Physical Composite Scores (female = 44.1, male = 47.1, P = .019) and less plantarflexion (female = 20.5 degrees, male = 23.5 degrees, P = .029). By 2 years postoperative, females had lower AOFAS scores (female = 80.3, male = 85.4, P = .040). A greater complication rate amongst the female cohort approached significance at 18.6% versus 9% for males (P = .124).

Discussion

These results support TAA as a reliable means of treating ankle arthritis in both sexes, despite important differences. Understanding these outcome differences is critical for effectively managing expectations and treating both female and male populations.

Levels of Evidence:

Level III: Retrospective cohort study