The purpose of this study is to assess the clinical outcome and gait analysis of a new technique for ankle arthrodesis using a Fibular Sparing Z Osteotomy (FSZO).

The FSZO technique for ankle arthrodesis utilises a lateral approach where the fibula is osteotomised and reflected posteriorly on a soft tissue hinge to allow easy access to the ankle joint for an anatomic arthrodesis. Outcome assessment at six months follow up included health related quality of life (SF36) and joint specific (American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale, Foot Function Index) clinical outcome scores. Gait Analysis was completed using the Walkabout Portable Gait Monitor® which includes a wireless gait belt housing a triaxial arrangement of accelerometers, resting behind the lumbar vertebrae, approximately at position of centre of mass to quatintfy surgery, lurch and functional limb length difference (LLD).

There was a significant improvement in the health related quality of life and the joint specific clinical outcome scores at six months follow up. The six month gait study preliminary analysis showed improvement in some parameters of gait but worsening in others.

The FSZO ankle arthrodesis technique provides improvement in clinical outcome scores and certain gait parameters at early follow up.