Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary nail with a valgus curve / 中华创伤骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the clinical effects of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTCA) using a retrograde intramedullary nail with a valgus curve.Methods At our department,22 patients underwent TTCA using a retrograde intramedullary nail with a valgus curve from June 2009 to January 2014 and were available for complete follow-up.They were 12 men and 10 women,aged from 46 to 79 years (average,62.2 years).There were 3 cases of primary ankle osteoarthritis,9 ones of traumatic arthritis,one of ankle arthritis secondary to severe talar avascular necrosis,3 ones of progressive subtalar arthritis following failed ankle replacement,5 ones of progressive subtalar arthritis following failed ankle arthrodesis,and one of arthritis secondary to equinovarus.The outcome measurements included the American Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale,EQ-5DTM functional score,radiologic assessment and clinical examination.Results The mean follow-up was 21.3 months (range,from 14 to 38 months).A plantigrade foot and bony union were achieved in all the patients after a mean time of 3.9 months (range,from 2.4 to 6.2 months).Postoperative radiologic results showed a good hindfoot alignment in all the patients.Superficial infection occurred in one patient and loosening of the distal screw in another who asked for removal.The mean postoperative EQ-5DTM functional score and AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score were 69.3 (range,from 20 to 90) and 69.9 (range,from 45 to 85),respectively.Conclusion TTCA using a retrograde curved intramedullary nail may lead to solid fusion and good hindfoot alignment.