Complications of midfoot and hindfoot arthrodesis

Midfoot and hindfoot arthrodeses traditionally have been done to treat defo rmities resulting from paralytic disorders, residual clubfoot deformity, an d posttraumatic arthritis. The surgical indications for midfoot and hindfoo t arthrodeses more recently have been expanded to include painful arthritic deformities associated with neuroarthropathy, seropositive or seronegative arthropathies, and neurologic disorders. Regardless of the joint fused or the technique used, the goal of each remains similar: the creation of a pai nless, plantigrade foot capable of being fitted into, at the very least, a custom shoe. The aim of the current study is to describe the major complica tions associated with midfoot and hindfoot fusions in adults, and the preve ntion and the treatment of these complications.