Clinical and Radiological Mid- to Long-term Results Following Triple Arthrodesis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Foot and ankle reconstruction
• Biomechanical analysis

Background:

• Triple arthrodesis (TA) is a standard procedure for hindfoot instability and pain.
• Assessing functional, radiological, and economic impacts of TA is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate clinical outcomes, pain reduction, and functional status after isolated TA.
• To analyze radiological changes and economic implications (work disability) following TA.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective single-center study of 16 patients undergoing isolated TA.
• Utilized SF-36, FFI, AOFAS scores, clinical exams, and radiographs for assessment.
• Mean follow-up of 7.8 years.

Main Results:

• High patient satisfaction reported post-TA.
• Lower AOFAS scores linked to secondary ankle arthrosis and higher BMI.
• Non-union rate observed at approximately 11%.

Conclusions:

• TA yields favorable clinical and radiological results, maintaining quality of life.
• Significant limitations in walking on uneven ground persist post-TA.
• Secondary arthrosis commonly develops in tarsal and ankle joints.