Arthrodesis or joint fusion is used to fuse bones of a joint together and prevent movement in that joint as well as stop pain and swelling. Typically used for joint fractures, arthritis and other conditions that affect mobility of the joint.When your surgeon and you have decided to go ahead with joint fusion it is as a last resort to ease ankle or foot pain when all other treatment options have not helped.
Pre-Treatment
When deciding if joint fusion is best for you, your physician will look to see if there are still strong bones on either side of the joint as well as a strong immune system.
It also must be understood this is a more permanent solution for treatment compared to joint replacement.
You and your physician will also go over any allergies, current medications, anesthesia options, and whether you will need to fast.
Imaging tests may also be ordered; these could include CT Scan, ultrasound, X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
It will also be recommended that you have a ride to and from surgery.
Procedure
This is usually an outpatient surgery taking anywhere from 2-5hrs.
Depending on what you and your physician decide you will have either spinal anesthesia or general anesthesia.
Surgeon will make a small incision around the joint. They will also most likely use a tiny camera as well to help with the surgery.
Damage cartilage is removed so bones are touching
Pins, screws, or a plate is used to fix the joint into a permanent position. A bone graft may also be used to help the bones heal together.
This will allow the bones to fuse together and create an immovable joint.
Post-Treatment
Need to wear a cast or brace after surgery.
Crutches will need to be used for several weeks as you will not be able to put weight on the foot or ankle.
Pain Medicine may be taken to help relieve pain.
Wear a shoe with a rocker-type sole
Resume a normal diet as soon as possible
Follow up X-rays may be needed to see how the surgery went.
If pain at the incision site gets worse or you experience a fever or chills, let your physician know right away.
Possible Side Effects
If getting surgery for Hallux Rigidus you will not be able to bend the toe at all but this is the only reliable way to reduce pain.
Reduced range of motion
Complications
Excess bleeding
Problems from anesthesia
Infection
Blood Clots
Joint does not fuse
Joint has poor alignment, causing pain or problems walking
Repeat surgery
Nerve damage
New arthritis in nearby joints
