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Arthrodesis fuses joints to stop painful movement and provide stability, commonly performed on the back and ankle. Bone grafts or metallic implants are used, with risks including graft rejection and nerve injuries. It can treat spinal stenosis, herniated discs, joint deformities, and arthritis. Follow-up physical therapy is recommended.
Arthrodesis is a surgical procedure that artificially joins or fuses joints to stop painful movement in the joint segment and to provide stability. The most common arthrodesis procedures are done on the back, called a spinal fusion, but this surgery can be done on other areas of the body. The ankle is another common site for this procedure.
Fusion is performed when, due to injury or the natural aging process, stability, joint alignment and mobility are inhibited. Pain with movement is another reason fusion may be an option. Arthritis, for example, can cause inflammation or swelling and misalignment of the joints, which causes painful joint rubbing.
There are several methods employed when fusing bones. A bone graft harvested from the pelvic area or a bone bank can be used. This bone can be inserted to build a bridge across the affected area. This true bone connection stimulates new bone to grow on top of it. Metallic implants, such as pins, screws, rods, and plates, may also be used. This type of arthrodesis is used to fix the joint until new bone grows in its place.
Arthodesis can be used following a serious injury that prevents normal, stable movement of the joint. In recent years, it’s also had success treating things like spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal that can irritate spinal nerves. Stricture is a normal part of aging, however, it can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in some people. Other conditions that arthrodesis can help are herniated discs, where the disc or shock absorber protrudes inside the spinal bones, spinal injuries, joint deformities, and in some cases, even infection processes. This procedure has also been successful in treating arthritis of the ankles where weight bearing and movement are painful.
Since arthrodesis is a surgical procedure, certain risks must be anticipated. Graft rejection or fusion failure may occur. Pain at the site is common. Nerve injuries can also occur. Possible complications of wound healing, such as infections and deep vein blood clots, are also risk factors to consider.
After arthrodesis, an increase in stability and alignment may be achieved, however an overall decrease in flexibility and range of motion can be expected, as the joints are now fused together. In most cases, the goal of reducing pain is achieved. Follow-up physical therapy is often recommended to regain full range of motion and strength.
Your overall health and realistic goals should be taken into consideration before opting for this surgery. Typically, your doctor will exhaust all other conservative treatment options before considering fusion surgery.
