Subtalar Arthrodesis using Cannulated Screws and Morselized Bone Graft

Ahn, Jae Hoon; Kim, Kap Jung; Choy, Won Sik; Na, Kyu Hyun

Abstract

PURPOSE: To analyze the clinical and radiological outcome of subtalar arthrodesis using cannulated screws and morselized bone graft.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Twenty one patients with follow-up of more than 1 year after subtalar arthrodesis were included in this study. Mean age was 40.8 years, and mean follow-up duration was 38 months. Underlying diseases were 19 cases of posttraumatic arthritis (18 calcaneal fractures and 1 talar fracture) and 2 cases of tarsal coalition. Clinically AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score, operation time, complication and satisfaction of patients were analyzed. Radiologically time to union, arthritis of surrounding joints, preoperative and postoperative talar declination angle were analyzed.
RESULTS
AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was improved from preoperative 33 points to postooperative 79 points. Eighteen patients (86%) were satisfied with the results. Mean operation time was 91 minutes. All cases were fixed with 1-2 cannulated screws and morselized bone graft. Mean time to radiologic union was 12.1 weeks. There was 1 case of delayed union. There was no significant perioperative changes in talar declination angles.
CONCLUSION
Subtalar arthrodesis using cannulated screws and morselized bone graft seems to be relatively simple and effective treatment method for subtalar arthritis.