Charcot arthropathy in spina bifida

This multicenter study was undertaken to identify the prevalence of Charcot arthropathy in the spina bifida population: to evaluate the relationship o f neurosegmental level, ambulatory level, and distribution of joint involve ment; and to assess treatment results and make treatment recommendations. S ixteen patients were identified with Charcot arthropathy based on clinical and radiographic criteria ranging in age from 9 to 42 years. There were 15 ankles, seven knees, and four hips identified with Charcot arthropathy. Six patients underwent surgery and modification of orthoses, eight had a modif ication of orthoses only, one had no modification, and one was lost to foll ow-up. Mean follow-up was 4 years and 9 months (with four good, 17 fair, an d five poor results). The best results were seen in 13 compliant patients w ith a brace modification, whereas poor results were seen in three patients with poor brace compliance. Based on our study, we have noted the prevalenc e of Charcot arthropathy in spina bifida to be one in 100 cases.