Arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis for chronic posttraumatic end-stage ankle arthritis in middle-age adults

Background The aim of this prospective study was to assess the clinical results of arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis for end-stage ankle arthritis in middle-aged active adults, as an alternative to open ankle arthrodesis based on the hypothesis that arthroscopic technique yields similar or better results but with less complications and shorter hospital stay. Patients and methods Between May 2012 and October 2014, this prospective case study was conducted on 19 middle-aged active patients who met the criteria and were followed for at least 2 years. Clinical grading was done at 6 months postoperatively, and final subjective clinical and radiologic assessment was done at least 2 years postoperatively, dividing the results into four groups (excellent, good, fair, and poor). Results After an average of 27.5 months of follow-up, 18/19 (94.7%) patients had their arthrodesis united, and 16 (84.2%) of them were satisfied. Three (15.8%) patients were dissatisfied after arthrodesis. Two (10.5%) of them were dissatisfied because of pain despite fusion occurred. Conclusion The results of arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis for end-stage ankle arthritis in middle-aged active adults in selected patients were clinically and radiologically satisfactory and could be used as an alternative to open technique but with fewer hazards and complications.