Clinical and radiological mid- to long-term outcomes following ankle fusion

Abstract

Background: The aims of this study were to establish the likelihood of additional surgery after ankle fusion, determine the interval for developing osteoarthrosis in the ipsilateral subtalar or Chopart joints, and evaluate its clinical relevance. Material and Methods: A retrospective clinical and radiological study with a minimum follow-up of 24 months was performed. Short-Form 36 Heath Survey, Foot Function Index, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) and a visual analog scale (VAS) were used to evaluate pain level and quality of life in at least 62 adult patients. Results: A total of 57% of our patients developed osteoarthrosis in at least one of the related joints and 28% of them required additional surgery due to pain. Patients who received workers' compensation had significantly lower AOFAS and higher VAS pain values. Conclusion: More than half of the study cohort developed osteoarthrosis in the related joints after ankle fusion, but fewer than one-third required further joint fusion surgery as a consequence.