Ankle arthrodesis using an anterior AO T plate

ABSTRACT

Fracture-dislocation of the talus is one of the most severe injuries of the ankle. Opinion varies widely regarding the proper treatment of this injury. We used a surgical technique for ankle arthrodesis using an anterior approach to the ankle and internal fixation with an anteriorly-placed AO T plate. The present study reports the results of tibiotalar arthrodesis with a technique which as developed by the Davey KJ. Eleven cases were retrospectively studied. The average age was 32 years [range, 26-51 years]. Six patients had posttraumatic avascular necrosis; five had neglected fracture-dislocation of the talus. 10 out of eleven of the ankles fused although one patient developed tibial stress fractures. 2 patients had a superficial infection which did not prevent union. The surgical technique is simple, easily reproducible and gives excellent clinical results with a high rate of union