Sep 14, 2023
Nonunion remains the most common major
complication of ankle arthrodesis. Although previous studies have
reported delayed union or nonunion rates, few have elaborated on
the clinical course of patients experiencing delayed union. In this
retrospective cohort study, we sought to understand the trajectory
of patients with delayed union by determining the rate of clinical
success and failure and whether the extent of fusion on computed
tomography scan (CT) was associated with outcomes.
In conclusion, we found that 71% of patients
with a delayed union at roughly 4 months after ankle fusion
required revision or were not satisfied. Patients with less than
25% fusion on CT had an even lower rate of clinical success. These
findings may help surgeons in counseling and managing patients
experiencing a delayed union after ankle fusion.
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