Cannulated Screw Fixation for Ankle and Hindfoot Arthrodesis

Chung, Yung Khee; Yoo, Jung Han; Park, Yong Wook; Lee, Ji Dong

Abstract

Multiple fixation techniques for arthrodesis of the ankle and hindfoot have been introduced. The cannulated screw fixation provides excellent internal compression for arthrodesis. We used 5.0 and 6.5mm cannulated screws for seven ankle, seven subtalar, four tibiotalocalcaneal, three pantalar and two triple arthrodesis between January 1994 and September 1995. No iliac bone graft was utilized. The follow-up period was from 12 to 25 months. Ages of the patients ranged from 25 to 58 years. All fused except one who was preoperatively diagnosed as pyogenic arthritis of the ankle and hindfoot. One patient with diagnosis of Streeter's disease was complicated with partial necrosis of the forefoot. We think this procedure has several advantages; 1. The leg or foot length is largely preserved because minimal subchondral bone is removed. So, the leg and foot is aesthetically pleasing and the musculature around the ankle and foot can be maintained in the normal balanced position. 2. The rate of fusion is high, because the soft tissues are minimally stripped and cannulated screw compresses the subchondral bone surface. 3. The cannulated screws rarely requires removal. So, we believe that the cannulated screw fixation for the ankle and hindfoot arthrodesis is an excellent treatment method.