Jul 13, 2023
Arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis (AAA) is a
successful treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. A significant
early complication of AAA is symptomatic nonunion. Published
nonunion rates range from 8% to 13%. Longer term, there is concern
that it predisposes to subtalar joint (STJ) fusion. To better
understand these risks, we undertook a retrospective investigation
of primary AAA.
In conclusion, as the largest study of AAA in
the literature, our findings suggest prior triple fusion is a major
independent risk factor for AAA nonunion. These patients should be
counseled of this high risk and may benefit from alternative
surgical options.
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