A staged approach with multiplanar dynamic external fixator and total ankle arthroplasty for post-traumatic ankle arthritis with rigid equinus deformity

Abstract

Ankle arthritis following ankle fractures or other traumatic injuries is a common complication, which can lead to osseous equinus in some cases. Although the multiplanar dynamic external fixator has been utilized for various orthopedic conditions, it is not often used to correct long-standing osseous equinus and subsequent soft tissue contracture in the presence of post-traumatic ankle arthritis. This research presents a case study of a 44-year-old woman who had severe osseous and soft tissue equinus and post-traumatic arthritis in her right ankle, and who underwent gradual correction using a multiplanar dynamic external fixator followed by total joint arthroplasty. This study is the first to report on the use of a multiplanar dynamic external fixator to correct a severe osseous equinus deformity during a staged procedure for total ankle arthroplasty. The patient was able to resume normal activities and maintain adequate ankle joint range of motion at 3 years without the need for revisional procedures.

Keywords

• Total ankle arthroplasty
• External fixator
• Equinus
• Ankle arthritis
• Ankle deformity