Open subtalar arthrodesis has been associated with a moderate rate of non-union, as high 16.3%, and high rates of infection and nerve injury. Performing this operation arthroscopically serves to limit the disruption to the soft tissue envelope, improve union rates and reduce infection. Our study describes our outcomes and experience of this operation. Retrospective review of all patients who underwent an arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis between 2023 and 2008. We excluded patients undergoing concurrent adjacent joint arthrodesis. The primary aim was to report on rates of union. Secondary outcomes included reporting on conversion to open procedure, duration of surgery, infection, and iatrogenic injury to surrounding structures.Background
Method
Arthroscopic ankle fusion is an effective treatment for end stage ankle arthritis. It reliably improves pain but at the expense of ankle motion. Development of adjacent degenerative joint disease in the foot is thought to be a consequence of ankle fusion due to altered biomechanics. However, it has been reported to be present on pre-operative radiographs in many patients. There is very little evidence reporting the long-term outcomes of patients undergoing arthroscopic ankle fusion and particularly those requiring secondary procedures for adjacent joint disease. We reviewed the operative records of 149 patients who had undergone arthroscopic ankle fusion under the care of two consultant foot and ankle surgeons between 2002 and 2006. We contacted patients by telephone to determine whether they had required further investigation or surgery on the same foot after their index procedure. Secondary outcome measures included a Manchester Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOQFQ) score and a patient satisfaction score.Introduction
Material and methods
