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[Ankle arthrodesis with four cancellous lag screws]
Thomas Endres1, René Grass, Stefan Rammelt
1Klinik für Unfall- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Carl-Gustav-Carus der Technischen Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, D-01307, Dresden, Germany. thend64@aol.com
Operative Orthopadie Und Traumatologie
|December 7, 2005
Summary
Ankle arthrodesis using an anterior approach effectively restores painless function in patients with severe ankle osteoarthritis. This surgical technique demonstrates good long-term outcomes with minimal complications, improving patient mobility and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Foot and Ankle Reconstruction
- Surgical Outcomes Research
Background:
- Severe ankle osteoarthritis significantly impairs function and quality of life.
- Conservative treatments and joint-preserving measures are often insufficient for advanced ankle destruction.
- Total ankle replacement may fail, necessitating salvage procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of ankle arthrodesis via an anterior approach for restoring painless function.
- To assess the long-term outcomes and complication rates of this ankle fusion technique.
- To analyze the impact on adjacent joint mobility and patient-reported scores.
Main Methods:
- Anterior ankle approach with cartilage resection and bone preparation.
- Correction of sagittal and frontal plane malalignments.
- Tibiotalar stabilization using four cancellous lag screws.
Main Results:
- 50 ankles in 48 patients underwent the procedure between 1994-1998.
- Follow-up averaged 5.6 years, with no serious complications reported.
- Postoperative outcomes showed 82.5% excellent or good results (AOFAS Score), with 26 degrees of Chopart joint motion.
Conclusions:
- Ankle arthrodesis through an anterior approach is a reliable method for achieving painless function in severe ankle osteoarthritis.
- The technique provides durable results with a low complication rate.
- Adjacent joint osteoarthritis generally remains stable post-surgery.