Tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis as a limb salvage procedure for complex hindfoot deformities

Tibiocalcaneal (TC) arthrodesis is a limb salvage method for patients with severe deformities combined with necrosis and/or luxation of the talus. The aim of this study was to examine the clinical and radiological outcome of TC arthrodesis.

This retrospective study identified 12 patients with luxation and/or necrosis of the talus, due to charcot neuroarthropathy (83.3 %) or traumatic injuries (16.7 %). All patients underwent TC arthrodesis by an external fixator or nail arthrodesis. The mean follow up was 18 (6-36) months with a mean age of 51.3 (30-66) years. The data were collected using the AOFAS score as well as clinical and radiological examination during regular follow up.

Seven (58.3 %) patients were treated with an external fixator, four (33.3 %) with nail arthrodesis and one (8.3 %) patient rejected both fixation methods. Four (100 %) patients achieved radiological and clinical bone union after nail arthrodesis and four (57.1 %) patients after external fixation. Three (42.9 %) patients treated by an external fixator showed a radiological moderate bone fusion, but a stable, asymptomatic non-union. One (8.3 %) case ended up in transfemoral amputation. Eleven patients (91.7 %) regained independent mobilization. The mean AOFAS score improved from 24.3 preoperatively to 66.7 postoperatively (p < 0.05). The postoperative satisfaction rate was good to excellent in 83.3 %.

TC arthrodesis is a promising and effective method for the treatment of severe ankle deformities with talus luxation. It allows patient's return to mobility with good to excellent patient satisfaction.