Arthrodesis of the upper ankle joint. Indications, technique, results]

From 1984 to 1990 a total of 119 arthrodesis of the upper ankle joint were performed at the Hospital of Accident Surgery of the Trade Association in Frankfurt am Main. The results of 98 patients after an arthrodesis of the upper ankle joint are documented by an x-ray control series and patient files, including the expertise on the medical status of pensioners plus a follow-up examination of 34 patients. The indications and the results are discussed on the basis of the various procedures. The results confirm the method of a compressions arthrodesis with an extension screw in case of a posttraumatic arthrosis of the upper ankle joint, while a fixateur externe should be used in case of chronical osteomyelitis, osteoporotic bones, extensive tissue swellings and after a pilon or talus fragment fracture.