The Modified Blair Fusion

Abstract

The Blair fusion is the accepted method to achieve an ankle arthrodesis in the presence of avascular necrosis or absence of the body of the talus. This procedure has not however, been reliable. A pseudarthrosis rate of 28% and fibrous ankylosis of the foot secondary to prolonged immobilization compromise the end result. A tibiotalar compression arthrodesis has been developed using an intermediate hip compression screw and a modified Stone staple. Five patients with avascular necrosis of the talus underwent a modified Blair fusion. Protected weightbearing was started at 6 weeks and healing occurred within 3 months. Although the number of cases is small, this study indicates that the addition of compression fixation to the Blair arthrodesis will significantly decrease the pseudarthrosis rate and perhaps the healing time.