[Corrective arthrodesis of midfoot Charcot neuroosteoarthropathy with internal fixation].

OBJECTIVE: The goal of treatment is a plantigrade, stable, ulcer-free foot which can be addressed with diabetes-adapted insoles and/or DNOAP shoes.

INDICATIONS: Charcot foot of the midfoot with/without infection-free ulcers.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Inacceptable anesthesiological risk in polymorbidity. Severe anesthesiological risks in multimorbid patients; symptomatic peripheral arterial occlusive disease not suitable for reconstruction; infections PEDIS/IWGDF grade 3 or 4, nonreconstructable osseous defects.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Corrective arthrodesis with segmental resection or bone grafting of the midfoot to achieve a plantigrade foot position. Plantar plate application or intramedullary (e.g., midfoot fusion bolt) and extramedullary (preferably: angular stable locking plates) implant combinations to create the highest possible degree of primary stability of the medial and/or lateral foot columns (superconstruct). In case of higher degrees of instability, the hindfoot should also be included into the arthrodesis.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Partial weight-bearing (20 kg) with forearm crutches for 3-5 months postoperatively in special orthosis or total contact cast. Therapeutic shoes with diabetes-adapted insoles with full weight-bearing.

RESULTS: Using any of these stabilization variants, a plantigrade, stable, and long-lasting ulcer-free foot may be obtained that is suitable for custom-made footwear. The outcome does not depend on definite osseous healing of the arthrodesis and allows for the patient to have a self-determined lifestyle. The consecutive rate of amputation is low.

COMPLICATIONS: High rate of surgical complications (e.g., infection, implant failure, non-union, loss of correction, reulceration), in particular, in cases of inadequate indication or insufficient primary stability.