Arthroscopic assisted ankle arthrodesis in post-traumatic ankle arthritis : What are the advantages and results?

Arthroscopic-assisted ankle arthrodesis (AAA) is a minimally invasive surgical technique for end-stage ankle arthritis, offering advantages such as faster fusion, reduced morbidity, lower infection rates, and shorter hospital stays compared to open methods. Despite its benefits, concerns remain regarding its ability to correct significant deformities and its impact on adjacent joint osteoarthritis. A retrospective review of five patients who underwent AAA in our orthopedic department between 2020 and 2025 was conducted. The AOFAS Ankle and Hindfoot score was evaluated preoperatively and at one-year follow-up. All procedures involved arthroscopic cartilage debridement and percutaneous screw fixation under fluoroscopic guidance. Postoperative outcomes, complications, and recovery metrics were analyzed. The mean patient age was 43.7 years, with post-traumatic osteoarthritis as the primary indication. Arthrodesis was achieved in all cases, with a mean follow-up of 1.7 years. The average AOFAS score improved from 34 preoperatively to 89 at one year. One patient required screw removal for prominence, and one developed a superficial infection managed conservatively. No cases of deep infection or major complications were reported. Hospital stay averaged two days, and all but one patient returned to work. AAA is a reliable and effective technique for managing end-stage ankle arthritis, demonstrating high fusion rates, minimal complications, and faster rehabilitation compared to open arthrodesis. It remains a valuable alternative for selected patients, particularly those with soft tissue concerns or moderate deformities.