Revision of the Malaligned Ankle Arthrodesis

Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2020 Jul;37(3):475-487. doi: 10.1016/j.cpm.2020.03.003. Epub 2020 May 11.

Abstract

A malaligned ankle arthrodesis is a painful and complicated pathology. Deformities may be present in the frontal, sagittal, or transverse plane or a combination of planes. Thorough preoperative evaluation of the deformity and the patient as a whole is crucial to successful revision. Surgical site for revision should be based on center of rotation of angulation, when possible. Revision commonly is performed through opening wedge osteotomy. Closing wedge and focal dome osteotomies, however, are excellent options. Revision also may be performed through external fixation or total ankle replacement. Although the literature is not rich with data, the options discussed provide favorable results.

Keywords: Ankle arthrodesis; Malaligned fusion; Malunion; Revision.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ankle Joint / surgery*
  • Arthrodesis / adverse effects*
  • Arthrodesis / methods
  • Arthroplasty, Replacement, Ankle
  • Bone Malalignment / surgery*
  • Fracture Fixation
  • Humans
  • Osteotomy
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnosis
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery*
  • Reoperation