Rapid arthrodesis of the ankle joint via verticalisation of the joint space

A technique of arthrodesis of the ankle joint under television control and with the aid of a special milling-cutter is presented. A bone graft is obtained from the ankle and turned in two planes, so that the joint space becomes vertical. The operation time is shortened to 8--10 min. After two weeks the patient can walk, in a walking-cast, weight-bearing. Bone fusion is obtained in 3--4 months. Thirty-two cases were operated on, and in 30 a painless osseous fusion of the ankle, in a functional position was obtained. The technique is indicated only in cases in which, operatively, the foot can manually be reduced to a functional position.