The Orthobullets Podcast Podiums⎪Foot & Ankle⎪Reconstructing the Arthrodesis Malunion
Apr 13, 2025
Join expert speaker Dr. John Ketz, a specialist in orthopedic surgery, as he discusses the complex challenges of reconstructing arthrodesis malunion, particularly in ankle fusions. He emphasizes the critical aspects of surgical planning, patient selection, and achieving proper alignment to enhance recovery outcomes. With a wealth of experience from live medical events, Ketz offers valuable insights and practical advice for specialists tackling these intricate procedures.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Avoiding Arthrodesis Malunions
- Avoid arthrodesis malunions by paying attention to positioning during ankle fusion.
- Aim for neutral dorsiflexion, 5 degrees valgus, slight external rotation, and center the talar process in the tibial shaft.
Respect Fibula to Avoid Complications
- Respect the fibula during fusion to prevent valgus drift and lateral foot overload.
- Malunions often cause stress fractures, adjacent joint degeneration, instability, and pressure wounds.
Evaluate Weight-bearing Alignment Meticulously
- Always clinically examine the foot and ankle weight bearing in all planes and compare with the contralateral limb.
- Match patient’s natural alignment to achieve a neutral fusion.