[Long-term results of arthrodesis of the upper ankle joint]

From 1985 to 1987 a total of 95 ankle arthrodesis were performed. The retrospective study showed in most cases a bony healing within 14 weeks with a complication rate of 20%, due to reduced conditions of the soft tissue. The follow up examination of 52 patients showed a good to very good result in 48 cases. Nearly 70% of the patients did not use orthopaedic made-to-measure shoes at the time of follow up. Only 4% were dissatisfied with this procedure. Therefore the arthrodesis of the ankle should be preferred in comparison to the arthroplastik.