This study was constructed to analyze the effect of different variables on union rate and functional outcome in patients who underwent arthroscopic ankle fusion for end-stage arthritis of ankle. We hypothesized that there were identifiable patient and surgical factors that could predict non-union and poor functional outcome in these patients.

Clinical records and radiographs were reviewed to evaluate identified variables that could predispose patients to non-union and poor functional outcome. Union and functional outcomes were then correlated with these variables.

Age, gender, BMI, diabetes, steroid use, bisphosphonates use, aetiology of arthritis and pre-operative alignment did not seem to affect the functional outcome or rate of union.

Smoking significantly increased the time taken for union.

Patients with neuromuscular problems had a higher non-union rate and may require more rigid fixation and a longer period of immobilization to achieve more consistent union rates.