External Fixation Techniques for Arthrodesis of the Knee and Ankle

Arthrodesis, or fusion of the major joints, is an uncommon procedure and often the last procedure in a long line of attempts to salvage the joint. In joints such as the hip and knee, the results of primary arthroplasty are generally excellent, and even revision arthroplasties give satisfactory results in most cases. This explains why primary arthrodesis of these joints is unusual. In the case of the ankle, however, the results of ankle joint arthroplasty have been rather disappointing, and here, primary arthrodesis is a more acceptable procedure.