Triple Arthrodesis with Internal and External Fixation: Technique Paper

Abstract

Background: The triple arthrodesis was described early by Myerson in 1923 and has been the gold standard surgical procedure for various conditions with the goal to reduce pain, improve deformity and facilitate function. Methods: The procedure consists of fusion of the subtalar joint, talonavicular joint and calcaneocuboid joint [1]. The procedure is traditionally done with internal fixation, however, Marinet al. has shown it to be performed with external fixation [2]. Dr. Marin and the associates have developed an alternative technique to perform a triple arthrodesis using internal and external fixation. This paper describes a step-by-step technique to perform a triple arthrodesis with both internal and external fixation. It will demonstrate the use of the prefabricated arches on the footplate for more precise and accurate placement of transosseous wires using arch-wire technique [3]. Results/Conclusion: We believe this technique will not only help increase the ability to achieve fusion with a less chance of non-union, but may also decrease healing time, which may allow patients to be mobile from the first week post-operatively and may diminish the risks associated with being non-weightbearing.