Ankle Arthrodesis

Ankle arthrodesis is the surgical fusion of bones that form the ankle joint. The goal of an ankle arthrodesis is to relieve pain in the affected joint usually caused by arthritis.

What are the indications of ankle arthrodesis?

Ankle arthrodesis is recommended for the treatment of severe arthritis that has not responded to conservative treatment measures such as medications or injections.

How is the procedure performed?

The joints are then fused together with the help of screws, wires, plates or rods. Bone grafting is sometimes used in cases of substantial bone loss. The graft is usually obtained from another part of your body (autograft) or donor tissue (allograft).

The post-operative guidelines after ankle arthrodesis include:

• Keep your cast or dressing dry and do not remove for the specified time period given by your surgeon.
• Avoid bearing weight on the involved ankle.
• Elevate your foot above heart level to minimize swelling.