The use of the 4.5 mm 90° titanium cannulated LC-angled blade plate in tibiotalocalcaneal and complex ankle arthrodesis

Abstract

Background: Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis is used to manage end stage arthritis, often associated with severe bone loss. The goal is to relieve pain through a stable, well-aligned hindfoot and ankle. We describe our initial results and outcome of ankle and tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using a 90° blade plate.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients managed at our institution between 2010 and 2014. Twenty cases were identified who had either talocrural (n = 9) or TTC fusion (n = 11) with 1 patient having both ankle and then TTC fusion in separate sittings.

Results: Fusion occurred in 18 of the 20 cases (90%) with correction of angular deformity and restoration of hindfoot alignment. None of the 18 patients developed complications and all discharged to follow-up when independently mobile and satisfied with the outcome.

Conclusions: This study demonstrated that using a 90° blade plate for ankle or TTC arthrodesis in a diverse group of complex primary and revision indications associated with severe deformity and bone loss resulted in a high rate of bony union and stable deformity correction.

Keywords: Ankle arthrodesis; Blade plate; Fusion; Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis.