Ankle Arthrodesis Using the Transfibular Approach

Ahn, Jae Hoon; Kim, Byung Sung; Kang, Jong Won; Kim, Kap Jung; Park, Jae Guk; Choy, Won Sik

Abstract

PURPOSE
We analyzed the clinical and radiological results of transfibular ankle arthrodesis for posttraumatic arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighteen cases of transfibular ankle arthrodesis were followed for more than 12 months postoperatively. Mean age was 55 years, and the mean follow-up period was 2.9 years. Preoperative and postoperative AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores, operative times, postoperative complications and patients satisfaction level were checked. Radiologically preoperative ankle deformity, time to union, position of fusion, residual tarsal motion arc and degenerative changes of adjacent foot joints were evaluated. RESULTS: At the last follow-up, the mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score had increased from a preoperative 41 points to 79 points. Sixteen patients (89%) were satisfied with the result. The mean operative time was 108 minutes. Three cases of chronic tear of the peroneus brevis tendon were treated. Mean time to radiological union was 13.1 weeks. No degenerative changes in adjacent foot joints were observed at the last follow up. Two cases (11%) of nonunion and one case (5.5%) of delayed union were observed. Revision of arthrodesis was performed in one case of nonunion. CONCLUSION: Satisfactory results were obtained after transfibular ankle arthrodesis for posttraumatic arthritis. Long-term follow up is needed to evaluate the effects of ankle arthrodesis upon adjacent foot joints.