The Long-Term Results of Ankle Arthrodesis

Abstract

Thirty-seven patients who had ankle arthrodesis carried out from 1–17 years previously were reviewed. The commonest indication in this series was post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Five different methods of fusion were used, the most common being the Charnley compression technique.

The incidence of union, the fusion position, gait, subtalar stiffness and midtarsal hypermobility were recorded and analysed. Objective and subjective assessments were carried out. Poor results were recorded in 11 patients and these results are reported in more detail. The incidence of union was 78.4 per cent.

Key words:

• ankle
• arthrodesis
• fusion
• non union