Abstract

The authors conducted a retrospective study of 7 patients treated with tibiotalocalcaneal Marchetti-Vicenzi nailing (one anterograde and six retrograde nails). All these patients had developed pseudarthrosis after previous arthrodesis for posttraumatic ankle fractures. The results were evaluated clinically and radiographically at a median time of four years. Fusion occurred in three patients, in one of them only after removal of the proximal locking screw. Of the remaining four patients, one achieved consolidation after replacement of the Marchetti-Vicenzi nail by another intramedullary nail, two were lost to follow-up after replacement by external or internal fixation, and the last patient developed pseudarthrosis again. At least nine additional interventions were necessary in six patients, including one amputation for intractable pain and severe soft-tissue damage due to the trauma. None of the patients had excellent or good results. The majority was unsatisfied with this type of intramedullary nailing. Therefore our study was terminated prematurely. Revision ankle fusion for nonunion or malunion after external or internal fixation has a high complication rate. Further study is mandatory to prevent or resolve remaining problems.