Arthrodesis of the ankle with modified distraction-compression and bone-grafting.

A modification of the technique of Chuinard and Peterson for distraction-compression arthrodesis of the ankle was used in twelve patients, whose ages ranged from ten to seventy-one years. This modified technique allows positioning that is better for function and it makes fusion more certain. It also offers the advantages of the original technique--that is, it preserves the potential for growth of the distal tibial and fibular physes and it maintains the height of the malleolus and foot. The duration of follow-up averaged four years and three months. The preoperative diagnoses were degenerative arthritis, poliomyelitis, talipes equinovarus, and myelodysplasia. Solid fusion was achieved in all patients, although one patient needed reoperation before fusion was achieved. The time to fusion averaged eleven months (range, three to sixteen months). The functional result was good in all patients.