Ankles gain as candidates for joint replacement

New York Times, January 19, 2010

This year, 4,400 patients are expected to undergo surgery to replace arthritic or injured ankles with artificial joints made of metal alloys and lightweight plastic, according to industry estimates. Four models are commonly used in the United States, with Food and Drug Administration approval. And demand is expected to grow as more and more baby boomers reach their 60s and 70s with debilitating ankle pain, the New York Times reports.