Arthodesis of the infected ankle and subtalar joint.

Arthrodesis of the ankle or subtalar joint for limb salvage in joint sepsis is extremely complicated, and produces a protracted course of management. A successful outcome is founded on the diligence of the surgeon in the preoperative evaluation, intraoperative technique, and postoperative care of the patient. Liberal consultation with infectious disease specialists, vascular, and plastic surgeons is recommended. Recognition of patient-specific comorbidities is essential to the selection of appropriate limb salvage candidates.