[Hindfoot arthrodesis for post-infectious ankle destruction using an intramedullary retrograde hindfoot nail]

Limb salvage after operations with deep infections of the ankle is often successful using arthrodesis of the hindfoot. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary nail following post-infectious ankle destruction.

Between 2007 and 2010 a total of 44 patients were treated with tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis and 14 patients with tibiocalcaneal (TC) arthrodesis using a retrograde hindfoot nail after quieting of infection. Evaluation included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and the short-form 12-item (SF-12) scores.

Of the 58 patients 49 (35 male and 14 female) could be followed-up. The average time of follow-up was 18 months and the mean age was 58 years. In 85.7 % bony union could be achieved and 10.2 % suffered from reinfections. The mean results achieved in the different scores were AOFAS 56 and SF-12 39.1 (physical health summary scale) and 46.1 (mental health summary scale). Statistical analysis showed a significantly higher rate of bony fusion for TTC arthrodesis. Bony non-union showed a significant correlation to patients with reinfection and to diabetic patients.

Hindfoot arthrodesis for treatment of septic arthritis after infections is possible by using an intramedullary nail. The results show a high rate of fusion with an acceptable reinfection rate and good patient acceptance.