Arthrodesis of the Ankle Joint

THE ankle joint — to function properly — must have smooth articular cartilage, proper weight- bearing alignment, intact supporting ligaments and good musculature under adequate voluntary control. A variety of pathologic changes are of frequent occurrence. Trauma, infection and certain other processes may cause such damage to the cartilaginous surfaces of the joint that a painful arthritis prevents normal function. Gross deformities of the foot — congenital or acquired — such as a clubfoot or the late sequelae of poliomyelitis and hemiplegia result in inability to place the sole of the foot flat on the floor and to carry out, . . .