Ankle Arthrodesis

Summary: Ankle arthrodesis is a reliable salvage procedure for end-stage dysfunction of the ankle joint. End-stage dysfunction is most commonly due to rheumatoid arthritis or posttraumatic degenerative arthritis of the ankle. Following successful ankle arthrodesis, a significant improvement in the ability to perform activities of daily living is expected. Ankle arthrodesis will provide many years of useful function and pain relief. Most patients will tolerate over-the-counter shoewear and lead a relatively normal lifestyle. With a long-standing ankle fusion, progressive degenerative arthritic changes may occur elsewhere in the foot. These are usually radiographic observations and rarely cause significant clinical restrictions. The predictable outcome and longterm endurance continue to support ankle arthrodesis as the procedure of choice for end-stage dysfunction of the ankle.