ARTHRODESIS OF THE ANKLE WITH LATERAL PLATING

A modification of internal fixation compression arthrodesis for ankle fusion is described using two 6.5-mm cancellous bone screws and a late ral T plate. Using this technique, 20 consecutive arthrodeses by one s urgeon were reviewed. Solid union was attained in 19 of 20 patients (9 5%). Average follow-up was 18 months (range 6-59 months). Time to obta in solid arthrodeses averaged 18 weeks. In 11 patients who returned fo r follow-up, clinical grading using the Mazur scale score averaged 70 of 90 points. Diagnoses included posttraumatic degenerative arthritis, failed ankle arthrodesis and rheumatoid arthritis (2 each), failed an kle arthroplasty, and post-tuberculous arthritis (1 each). Complicatio ns included one malunion and one asymptomatic screw malposition. All p atients attaining union were pleased with the procedure.