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Published on: January 24, 2018
Wolf blade plate ankle arthrodesis
J B Weltmer1, S H Choi, A Shenoy
1St. Louis County Orthopedic Group, Inc., MO 63128.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|July 1, 1991
Summary
The Wolf blade plate ankle arthrodesis achieved a 95% fusion rate in patients with severe ankle arthritis. Most patients were satisfied with the surgical outcome, reporting good fusion positions.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Arthrodesis techniques
Background:
- Ankle arthrodesis is a surgical procedure to fuse the ankle joint.
- Posttraumatic arthritis is a common indication for ankle fusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of Wolf blade plate ankle arthrodesis.
- To determine the fusion rate and patient satisfaction after this procedure.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 15 patients who underwent Wolf blade plate ankle arthrodesis.
- Follow-up averaged 56 months, assessing fusion rates, position, and patient satisfaction using the Mazur score.
Main Results:
- An 94.7% fusion rate was achieved in 19 cases.
- Average fusion position was 2.9 degrees plantar flexion and 5 degrees valgus.
- All fused ankles resulted in patient satisfaction, with an average Mazur score of 75.
Conclusions:
- The Wolf blade plate is an effective and straightforward method for ankle arthrodesis.
- It offers a high fusion rate with minimal dissection and good patient outcomes.
