Background: The goal of ankle arthrodesis is to create a pain-free plantigrade foot for weight bearing. Attention to the position and alignment of the foot in relation to tibia and leg is crucial. Ideal alignment includes neutral ankle flexion, 0-5 of valgus, aand neutral to slight external rotation position. Malalignment of the foot may have adverse effects on the biomechanics of the lower extremity leading to persistent pain following a soild arthrodesis. Many techniques for ankle arthrodesis are described in the literature and can be broadly classified into two groups : arthrodesis in situ and realignment arthrodesis. Various surgical approaches and fixation methods may be considered depending on the status of the soft tissues, degree of deformity and bone quality, and experience of the surgeon.

ankle arthrodesis