Background: Charcot ankle fractures are a complex injury requiring effective surgical intervention to ensure optimal healing and functional restoration. Primary tibiotalocalcaneal nailing has emerged as a potential fixation technique for these challenging fractures, though the functional outcomes and rates of union require further investigation.
The aim of the work: This study aims to evaluate the functional outcomes of primary tibiotalocalcaneal nailing in adults with Charcot ankle fractures and assess the rates of union and non-union following the procedure.
Patients and Methods: Twenty adult patients with diagnosed Charcot ankle fractures underwent primary tibiotalocalcaneal nailing. Each patient was followed up for a minimum of six months, with clinical and radiological assessments performed to evaluate the functional outcomes of the fixation. Radiographic evaluations at three months post-operatively were conducted to determine the incidence of union and non-union. The study also examined complications, including post-operative suture removal, wound infection, and weight-bearing status
Results: At the three-month follow-up, radiological assessments indicated that 70% of the studied cases achieved union, while 30% experienced non-union. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between union and non-union cases concerning post-operative suture removal, incidence of wound infection, and weight-bearing status, with p-values of 0.65, 0.521, and 0.2, respectively.
Conclusion:  Primary tibiotalocalcaneal nailing shows promise as a surgical treatment for Charcot ankle fractures, with a favorable union rate observed in the majority of patients.