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Triple Arthrodesis Using External Ring Fixation and Arched-Wire Compression

An Evaluation of 87 Patients

^* Atlanta Leg Lengthening and Deformity Correction Center, Macon, GA. Dr. Talarico is now in private practice, Statesboro, GA.

Corresponding author: George R. Vito, DPM, Atlanta Leg Lengthening and Deformity Correction Center, 3556 Riverside Dr, Macon, GA 31210.

Abstract

From January 1995 to December 2000, 87 patients at a single medical center underwent triple arthrodesis using external rings and arched-wire compression as the method of fixation. A retrospective evaluation was conducted to assess the clinical results of this technique. Eighty-four patients (97%) achieved clinical and radiographic fusion in 6 to 8 weeks. All of the patients were partially weightbearing during the first postoperative week. Thirty-one patients (36%) developed a superficial infection at one or more wire insertion sites, and nine (10%) experienced dehiscence of an incision. Three patients (3%) developed an asymptomatic nonunion. This article describes the use of external ring fixation with arched-wire compression for triple arthrodesis and presents the findings from 87 patients who underwent this technique. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 94(1): 12-21, 2004)