Retrospective cohort study compares complication rates of TTC fusion versus ORIF in neuropathic ankle fractures, suggesting implications for patient recovery.
Key Points
This study aims to compare complication rates and functional outcomes following tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) fusion versus open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for neuropathic ankle fractures.
Conducted a retrospective review over 17 years with institutional approval.
Included patients had lower extremity neuropathy and ankle fractures needing ORIF or TTC fusion.
Collected demographic and clinical data for statistical analysis.
Used descriptive statistics and performed Kruskal-Wallis and χ2 tests for comparisons.
Out of 45 patients, 26 underwent ORIF and 19 had TTC fusion.
Significant difference in weightbearing status at 2 weeks post-surgery: 80.8% of ORIF patients were nonweightbearing compared to 36.8% of TTC fusion patients (P < 0.01).
No significant difference in weightbearing status or postoperative complications between the two groups at later stages (P > 0.05).
Both procedures showed similar opioid usage with no significant difference (P > 0.99).