The medial malleolar approach for arthrodesis of the ankle: a report of 13 cases.

A series of thirteen patients that had primary fusion of the ankle joint through an isolated medial approach is presented. The technique involves transection of the medial malleolus for access to the articular surfaces, rather than the traditional transfibular approach. The medial malleolus was replaced in all cases, preserving the deltoid ligament. Union was achieved in 12 of 13 patients. The technique is described in detail and the advantages of this approach are discussed with respect to preservation of the blood supply to the talus and tibia.