Fusion Surgeries
Fusion surgery, also known as arthrodesis, is a procedure used to permanently join two or more bones in the ankle or foot. It is commonly performed to treat severe arthritis, joint deformities, instability, or chronic pain that doesn’t improve with non-surgical treatments.
By eliminating painful motion in the affected joint, fusion surgery reduces pain, improves alignment, and helps restore more stable, functional movement in the foot and ankle.
What Is Fusion Surgery?
Fusion surgery involves:
- Removing the damaged cartilage from the joint surfaces
- Positioning the bones in the correct alignment
- Fixing them together using screws, plates, or rods
- Allowing the bones to heal and fuse into a single solid structure
Once fused, the joint no longer moves—but this often eliminates pain and creates a more stable foot or ankle for walking.
When Is Fusion Surgery Recommended?
- Advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Severe joint deformity (e.g., flatfoot, clubfoot, high-arched foot)
- Post-traumatic arthritis after fractures
- Chronic joint instability
- Failed previous joint replacement or other surgeries
- Infection or avascular necrosis affecting the joint
Benefits of Fusion Surgery:
- Significant pain relief
- Improved foot and ankle alignment
- Long-term stability and support
- Restores ability to walk with less discomfort
- Often preferred in younger, active patients or those with failed replacements
Do’s After Fusion Surgery
- Keep the leg elevated to reduce swelling
- Follow your surgeon’s advice on non-weight-bearing duration
- Maintain a clean and dry surgical site
- Attend follow-up visits and X-rays to confirm bone healing
- Begin physiotherapy when cleared
Don’ts After Surgery
- Don’t walk or put weight on the operated foot too soon
- Avoid soaking or wetting the surgical dressing early on
- Don’t skip prescribed medications or rehab
- Avoid high-impact activities after recovery
- Don’t ignore signs of infection or delayed healing