Management of complications of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis in patients with co-morbidity

Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis is a viable alternative to amputation in severely deformed hindfoot deformity. We report the results of retrospective analysis of single centre, single surgeon operated consecutive 15 cases of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis at our institution. The diagnosis was rheumatoid arthritis in one case, traumatic arthritis in six, degenerative osteoarthritis in five and neuropathic ankle in three cases. Co-morbidity was seen in 13 cases of which six patients were suffering from diabetes. Bony union was observed in 87% of cases, 85% patients were satisfied at the end result achieved. The aim of this study was to determine improvement in pain, function and to determine patients satisfaction achieved. Considering improvement in pain, function, AOFAS score and patient's satisfaction achieved post-operatively, we feel this is good technique with satisfactory outcome. It provides good biomechanical stability thereby minimising the chances of failure.