[Technic and results of covered ankle joint arthrodesis with autocompression angle plates]

In 1973, Mittelmeier introduced a new technique of arthrodesis of the ankle joint by internal osteosynthesis using an autocompression plate with additional compression screwing of fibula to tibia and talus in order to avoid the disadvantages of previous operative methods of arthrodesis by bone splinting or external fixation (longer cast immobilisation, handicap by external fixator, danger of bone hole osteomyelitis a.o.). Regarding this new technique, the fibula works as a petiolated well vascular bone chip which bridges the joint. Representation of the special operative technique of covered autocompression arthrodesis of the upper ankle joint rsp. - in case of special indication - the combined arthrodesis of the upper and lower ankle joint. Representation of our casuistry of 43 patients who underwent this operation. With the exception of one case (osteomyelitis recidivation with following pseudarthrosis) a fast bony consolidation of the arthrodesis was achieved. In the meantime the osteosynthesis material is removed in 35 cases. One third of the patients gets along with conventional shoes.