Ankle fusion

Ankle fusion

Ankle fusion: Ankle fusion is permanently joining the bones that comprise the ankle joint with screws, essentially locking the ankle in place to eliminate pain.

Diseases And Conditions Treated: Ankle fusion

These diseases and conditions may be treated with the surgical procedure Ankle fusion:

• Ankle rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankle osteoarthritis
• Ankle arthritis
• Ankle injury
• Failed ankle replacement
• Chronic sepsis
• Severe ankle pain (see Ankle pain)

Non-Surgical Options: Ankle fusion

These non-surgical medical options may be possible alternative treatments to performing Ankle fusion:

• Anti-inflammatory steroid injections
• Pain medicine
• Physical therapy
• Strength training
• Weight loss
• Walking aids (e.g. cane)
• Ankle brace

Other Surgical Options: Ankle fusion

Surgical procedure options to consider as an alternative for Ankle fusion may include these surgeries:

• Ankle replacement

Anesthetic Requirements for Ankle fusion

These surgical anesthetic requirements for the procedure Ankle fusion may include:

• General or epidural anesthesia

Procedure Complications: Ankle fusion

Possible surgical complications of Ankle fusion may include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia
• Reduced mobility
• Failed fusion (bones do not grow together)

Prognosis for a Good Outcome: Ankle fusion

The prognosis for a good medical outcome: The prognosis is excellent. Joint pain is relieved in most cases.

Ankle fusion: Recovery Time

Recovery period for Ankle fusion: Eight to twelve weeks.

Ankle fusion: Other Names

Other names for this medical surgical procedures (Ankle fusion) include:

• Ankle arthrodesis
• Ankle joint fusion
• Joint fusion-ankle

More Surgery Topics

Search Specialists by State and City