Result of Midfoot Fusion with Locking Plate

Cha, Seong Mu; Kang, Kyung Woon; Suh, Jin Soo

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to compare and analyze the results of midfoot arthrodesis with locking plate fixation and the other instruments.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Twenty one patients, a total of 22 feet who underwent midfoot arthrodesis at our institution were reviewed retrospectively from January 2006 to December 2011. Locking plates were used in 9 cases, and the other instruments such as K-wires, screws, staples were used in 13 cases. Radiologic union time was evaluated and compared between both groups. Preoperative & postoperative AOFAS midfoot scores were evaluated and compared as clinical results.
RESULTS
The average AOFAS score was rising from 69.7 to 89.4 in locking plate group and from 67.6 to 80.7 in the other instrument group. There was no statistically significant difference in two groups (p=0.179). The mean radiologic union time was 10.2 weeks in locking plate group, 12.6 weeks in the other instrument group with no significant difference (p=0.062). One case of peroneal nerve irritation was detected as a complication in locking plate group. One case of peroneal nerve irritation and 1 case of superficial wound infection with skin sloughing were detected in the other instrument group.
CONCLUSION
There was no statistically significant difference for union time and clinical results in both groups. A locking plate can be one of the useful option for midfoot arthrodesis.