The long-term results of ankle arthrodesis

• Published in: Journal of bone and joint surgery. British volume Vol. 70; no. 1; pp. 113 - 116
• Main Authors: LYNCH, A. F, BOURNE, R. B, RORABECK, C. H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London British Editorial Society of Bone and Joint Surgery 1988
• Subjects: Activities of Daily Living; Adult; Aged; Ankle Joint - physiopathology; Ankle Joint - surgery; Arthrodesis - adverse effects; Biological and medical sciences; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Locomotion; Male; Medical sciences; Middle Aged; Movement; Osteoarthritis; Osteoarthritis - surgery; Surgical Wound Infection - etiology; Human; Ankle joint; Orthopedic surgery; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Lower limb; Arthrodesis; Osteoarthritis; Long term; Foot
• ISSN: 0301-620X; 2044-5377
• DOI: 10.1302/0301-620x.70b1.3339041

The results of 62 ankle arthrodeses, mostly performed for osteoarthritis, have been reviewed; of these, 39 were examined clinically and radiographically after an average follow-up period of seven years. Compression arthrodesis was associated with the highest incidence of complications, and an anterior sliding graft gave the most satisfactory results. Very few patients required modification of their footwear; most could walk independently with a slight limp and were able to return to their pre-operative work. However, after operation, the ability to run and to participate in vigorous sporting activities was limited. Complications included wound infection, non-union, and some change in midtarsal mobility, but excellent pain relief was reported by all patients.