Hindfoot and Ankle Charcot Reconstruction

Hindfoot and ankle Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) deformities can be devastating, limb-threatening illnesses with high rates of complications. The fragmentation and collapse of the transverse tarsal, subtalar, and ankle joints can lead to significant deformity resulting in ulceration, osteomyelitis, and angular deformities. These issues preclude the use of normal gear and cause difficulty with ambulation. Charcot of the hindfoot and particularly of the ankle often has profound instability making bracing difficult or impossible. This can lead to a below-knee amputation in 30–50% of Charcot ankle cases, which, in many cases, can be a more stable outcome rather than limb salvage.