European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Background: Ankle arthrodesis for diabetic complications, such as osteomyelitis and Charcot
neuroarthropathy (CN), constitute an entirely separate group that calls for different surgical
approaches for successful outcomes. Diabetes mellitus is currently the most common cause of
neuroarthropathy. Abnormal nociception and proprioception lead to progressive destruction of
the joint. Ankle arthrodesis and ankle arthroplasty are the two common operative treatments
used in end stage ankle arthritis (ESAA). Recent clinical evidence suggests that ankle
arthroplasty leads to superior functional outcomes over ankle arthrodesis. Ankle arthrodesis is
indicated for patients with ESAA that failed a minimum of 3 month of conservative treatment.
Both internal and external fixation may be used in ankle arthrodesis. Retrograde
intramedullary arthrodesis is typically reserved for arthrodesis of both the ankle and subtalar
joints. Two standardized methods of ankle arthrodesis for ESAA is described here: Open and
arthroscopic.