CONCENTRIC ARTHRODESIS OF THE ANKLE JOINT

A Transmalleolar Approach

¹ SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

The transmalleolar approach to the ankle joint, with excision of the malleoli, provides surgical access to the entire joint under direct vision.

Resection of the joint with an osteotome, the curve of which conforms to the arc of the ankle joint, assures an exact osseous approximation, regardless of the degree of equinus.

Subperiosteal resection of the malleoli permits direct contact between the talus and the tibia.

Resection of the malleoli and the rounding of their bases make a narrow and shapely ankle.

Bilateral incisions supply a means of obtaining simultaneously drainage of the joint and fusion in septic compound fractures, even in the active stage of infection.

Immobilization by means of transfixion pins (or Kirschner wires), fixed by either the cast or castless methods, is so positive and complete that early crutch ambulation can be permitted with safety.

CiteULike    Connotea    Del.icio.us    Technorati    What's this?