Authors : J. Kiene , A.P. Schulz , S. Hillbricht , Ch. Jurgens and A. Paech
Abstract: In the last 10 years there is a clear favour toward internal fixation. We retrospectively evaluate the technique and evaluate the clinical long term results of external fixation in a triangular frame. From 1994-2001 a consecutive series of 95 patients with end stage arthritis of the ankle joint were treated. The case notes were evaluated regarding trauma history, medical complaints, further injuries and illnesses, walking and pain status and occupational issues and the clinical examination before arthrodesis. Mean age at the index procedure was 45.4 years (18-82), 67 patients were male (70.5%). Via a bilateral approach the malleoli and the joint surfaces were resected. An AO fixator was applied with two Steinmann-nails inserted. Follow up examination at mean 4.4 years included a standardised questionnaire and a clinical examination including the criteria of the AOFAS-Score and radiographs. In 4 patients a non-union of the ankle arthrodesis developed (4.5%). The mean AOFAS score improved from 20.8-69.3 points. Non-union rates and clinical results of arthrodesis by triangular external fixation of the ankle joint do not differ to internal fixation methods. The complication rate and the reduced patient comfort reserve this method mainly for infected arthritis and complicated soft tissue situations.
J. Kiene , A.P. Schulz , S. Hillbricht , Ch. Jurgens and A. Paech , 2008. Resection Arthrodesis by External Fixation for Posttraumatic Arthrosis of the Ankle-Clinical Results . Surgery Journal, 3: 1-5.