Ankle Arthrodesis in a Resource-limited Country: Indications and Results in 26 Cases

Author(s): Muluem Olivier K, Fonkoue Loic, Koagne Mba JL, Ngo Yamben MA, Nyankoue MF, Handy Eone D

Introduction: Ankle arthrodesis is a surgical technique used to treat endstage ankle osteoarthritis. Several techniques are used and have shown satisfactory results. The aim of this study was to report the indications and results of arthrodesis performed in a resource-limited setting.

Method: We conducted a descriptive, retrospective study in three referral hospitals in the city of Yaounde. We included consenting patients who had undergone ankle arthrodesis. Parameters such as the approach, type of fixation, consolidation rate, complications, and functional results were analyzed.

Results: We surveyed 26 patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis surgery. The average age was 47.73 years. The sex ratio was 1.16 in favor of men. Arthrodesis was indicated in (n=5; 19.2%) cases of primary osteoarthritis, (n=19; 73.0%) cases of post-traumatic osteoarthritis, (n=1; 3.8%) case of external malleolus tumor, and (n=1; 3.84%) case of postinfectious osteoarthritis of the ankle. The anterior approach was the most commonly used (n=13; 50%), and cross-screwing was most frequent (n=10; 38%). The union rate was 92% with some complications such as infection (n=3; 11%), and pseudarthrosis (n=1; 4%). At the last follow-up evaluation, for the AOFAS score, we obtained 19.2% excellent results, 57.7% good results.

Conclusion: Ankle arthrodesis via arthrotomy is a technique suited to our environment and should be promoted because it offers satisfactory anatomical and functional results.