A New Technique For Tibiotalar Arthrodesis: Shotel Ankle Arthrodesis Nail System

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to present the short-term outcomes of tibiotalar joint arthrodesis using the Shotel ankle arthrodesis nail system. Methods 10 patients underwent ankle arthrodesis using the new nail system between 2021 and 2022 due to advanced arthritis. Patients were followed up for a mean of nine months. Outcomes were assessed using metrics such as radiographic union, pain, and patient-reported outcomes questionnaires. We explained a stepwise description of a novel technique for isolated tibiotalar ankle arthrodesis using a curved nail. We also presented our postoperative protocol, including weight-bearing and rehabilitation protocol. Results The union rate was 100% after a mean time of nine months of follow-up. There were no complications related to the hardware requiring revision or removal. Pain was measured with a visual analog scale and improved from a mean of 6.7 to 4.2. Conclusion Patients undergoing tibiotalar arthrodesis using the Shotel nail have acceptable outcomes. Considering this technique as a minimally invasive intervention, we believe that soft tissue complications are less than conventional open techniques.