Open or arthroscopic ankle fusion (AAF) is a successful operative treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. Evidence suggest that AAFs have better outcomes. In addition to the operative technique other patient-factors can influence outcomes. The most significant complication of ankle fusion is a non-union. To better understand the risk factors related to this we undertook a retrospective investigation of primary AAFs. We reviewed all AAFs conducted at our institution over a 10-year period. Patients excluded if they had simultaneous fusion of neighbouring joints or were lost to follow-up. The primary outcome variable was radiographic union. Other operative complications were analysed as secondary outcomes. Two hundred and eighty-four eligible AAFs in 271 patients were performed over the study period.Background
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