Ankle arthrodesis: results after the miniarthrotomy technique

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Podiatric Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Research

Background:

• Severe degenerative changes in the ankle joint often necessitate surgical intervention, such as ankle arthrodesis.
• Traditional open arthrodesis can involve significant soft-tissue disruption and prolonged recovery.
• Minimally invasive techniques are sought to reduce surgical morbidity and improve patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of a miniarthrotomy technique for ankle fusion.
• To compare the miniarthrotomy approach to traditional open procedures for ankle fusion.
• To assess complication rates and healing times associated with the miniarthrotomy ankle fusion.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 34 ankle fusions, with 15 performed using a miniarthrotomy technique.
• The miniarthrotomy technique involved two small incisions for debridement and bone graft preparation.
• Ankle positioning, screw fixation, and post-operative casting protocols were standardized.

Main Results:

• Ankle fusion was radiographically evident at a mean of 6.0 weeks (range, 3-15 weeks).
• Follow-up ranged from 12 to 19 months, with solid arthrodesis achieved in the evaluated patients.
• Transient synovitis occurred in 7/15 patients, possibly related to the bone graft slurry, resolving within approximately 3 weeks.

Conclusions:

• The miniarthrotomy technique provides a viable, less invasive option for ankle fusion in cases of severe degenerative changes with minimal deformity.
• This approach offers advantages such as decreased soft-tissue insult, reduced bone stripping, and potentially faster healing.
• While effective, marked malalignment may still necessitate more extensive open arthrodesis procedures.