Arthroscopically assisted ankle fusion in patients with end-stage tuberculosis

Purpose: Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of arthroscopically assisted ankle fusion in patients with end-stage tuberculosis. Methods: Ten patients, all with end-stage tuberculosis, were operated on by arthroscopically assisted ankle fusion, and a half-ring sulcated external fixator was used. Partial weight-bearing was started on the fourth day. The clinical results were assessed with the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score. Ankle fusion was proved by radiographs. Results: At the mean follow-up of 23 months, all fusions were healed; the mean time to radiologic healing was 14.5 weeks. The final American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score was 66 points. Conclusions: Arthroscopically assisted debridement and ankle arthrodesis with an external fixator provided a very satisfactory rate of ankle fusion in 10 patients who had no recurrences or other complications. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic case series.