Dec 11, 2024
Severe septic destruction of the ankle joint
poses a therapeutic challenge but lacks a consensus optimal
treatment. Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTCA) is considered a
valuable salvage procedure, but the literature remains scarce.
Conventional treatment approaches, including 2-stage procedures,
have been associated with prolonged recovery times and varying
success rates. Many authors prefer classical external fixation in
these scenarios, citing concerns that internal implants might pose
a risk for recurrent infection. To date, no study has investigated
the outcomes of 1-stage surgery using a retrograde intramedullary
(IM) nail. The main purpose was to assess the rate of recurrent
infection at 2 years following 1-stage TTCA using a retrograde IM
nail in severe septic destruction of the ankle joint. Fusion rates
and functional outcomes were evaluated as secondary purposes.
In conclusion, one-stage TTCA with retrograde
IM nail appears to be an acceptable alternative in severe septic
destruction of the ankle joint, with a high eradication rate of
infection and ankle fusion.
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