ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: We evaluated the clinical and radiological results of arthroscopic ankle fusion using 2 medial screws which had advantages of less morbidity, early weight-bearing and high union rate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: From April, 2002 to March, 2004, 8 patients who had ankle osteoarthritis were treated by ankle fusion using 2 medial screws under arthroscopy; five patients with post-traumatic osteoarthritis, two with post-infectious arthritis and one with paralytic foot. There were 5 male and 3 female. Average age was 67 years old ranging from 57 to 71 years. We evaluated them clinically preoperative and postoperative using AOFAS score, VAS pain scale and patient's satisfaction. In regard to radiological fusion, we checked them by simple AP, lateral and mortise view. Follow up period was average 11 months (range, 6~24 months). RESULTS: All ankles were successfully fused with 2 medial screws under arthroscopy. The mean time of fusion was 10.5 weeks (range, 8~14 weeks). Patient's satisfaction checked at 6 months after operation had favorable results (excellent and good 75%). One case had pain on medial malleolar area because of screw's protrusion. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic ankle fusion using 2 medial screws was good modality of ankle fusion with less morbidity and early weight-bearing in some cases of ankle arthritis.