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Triple arthrodesis. A critical long-term review.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Triple arthrodesis in 80 feet showed patient satisfaction but concerning objective findings like joint degeneration and deformity. Pre-existing equinovarus significantly impacted poor outcomes, questioning bony resection for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Foot and Ankle Surgery
- Podiatric Medicine
Background:
- Triple arthrodesis is a surgical procedure to fuse the three main joints of the hindfoot.
- It is commonly performed to treat severe foot deformities and pain.
- Long-term outcomes and potential complications require thorough evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the long-term results of triple arthrodesis.
- To assess patient satisfaction and objective outcomes.
- To identify factors associated with poor results.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 80 triple arthrodesis procedures.
- Average follow-up period of 13 years.
- Evaluation included patient-reported satisfaction and objective assessments of joint degeneration, pseudarthrosis, avascular necrosis, and residual deformity.
Main Results:
- Majority of patients reported high satisfaction.
- Objective assessments revealed a high incidence of ankle and midfoot degenerative changes.
- Significant rates of pseudarthrosis, avascular necrosis of the talus, and residual deformity were observed.
- Pre-operative rigid equinovarus deformity was strongly associated with poor outcomes.
Conclusions:
- While patient satisfaction can be high, objective outcomes of triple arthrodesis may be less favorable long-term.
- Pre-existing rigid equinovarus deformity is a critical factor predicting poor results.
- Bony resection alone may be insufficient for correcting severe equinus deformities.
