Arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) for talar body fractures: systematic review

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to systematically assess the available literature on the technique and results of arthroscopic reduction – internal fixation for displaced fractures of the talar body. Methods: A systematic review was made of the available literature on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library database, including studies from January 1985 to July 2021. The literature search, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted by two independent reviewers. Surgical technique, perioperative management, clinical outcome scores, radiographic outcomes, and complication rates were evaluated. Results: Out of 37 articles reviewed, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies included reported on the results of 22 patients. No complications were observed in any of the patients treated. Conclusions: The included studies had too many weaknesses to allow the pooling of data or meta-analysis. However, percutaneous arthroscopic talar internal fixation appears to be a good option for uncomplicated displaced intra-articular talar fractures. Appropriately powered randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-ups are required to confirm the effectiveness of this technique. Level of Evidence: Level IV, a systematic review of Level IV studies.