Neuroarthropathy. Clinico-radiologic analysis of 115 cases.

115 patients (163 joints) with neuroarthropathy (Charcot joint) were observed clinically and radiologically. In Charcot joint of the shoulder, the entire scapula was disintegrated. After debridement and arthrodesis, fragmentation of bone reappeared at both ends of the affected long bone and even on the lateral surface of diaphysis. Fragmentation of the articular surface and the subchondral bone was seen in the non-weight-bearing surface. 32 patients in this series sustained spontaneous fractures without a history of trauma or undue strain. Follow-up for short periods (2 to 6 weeks) showed rapid progressive destruction. These results indicated that neurotrophic theory seems to furnish an explanation for the pathogenesis of the Charcot joint, and that bone resorption should be the primary change while bone hypertrophy and proliferation, the secondary.