Ankle Arthrodesis

Ankle arthrodesis( or ankle fusion) is a surgical procedure performed by fusing the bones together. Therefore, making up the ankle joint (tibia, talus, and fibula bones). Now, this procedure will eliminate the joint motion by reducing pain coming from the affected joint.

An ankle fusion is most common in patients with severe ankle arthritis. Therefore, not responding to additional conservative methods. When treating a patient, these plans include medications or injections. However, ankle infections also commonly use this method for neurological ankle instability and tumors.

Ankle arthrodesis is avoided in patients who have the following:

• improper blood supply to the ankle
• insufficient quantity or quality of bone
• severe deformity
• severely impaired nerve function
• certain medical conditions (that increase the risk of anesthetic)

If you have any additional questions or concerns, contact our South Florida foot doctor at 954-906-9272. So, make an appointment today online or by calling us.

Ankle Arthrodesis Procedure

Once all conservative options have been attempted with little or no success, an ankle arthrodesis procedure is now considered. 

An ankle fusion is performed as an arthroscopic or an open traditional surgery. Traditional surgery begins with incisions created from the front or outside of the ankle. Any remaining cartilage within the ankle joint is removed so that there is contact between the bony surfaces.

Then, the joints are fused together with screws, wires, plates, or rods. However, bone grafting is recommended in cases of substantial bone loss. Bone loss is normal since it is taken from the patient as an autograft from the pelvis, heel bone, or below the knee. Or from a donor tissue allograft. In rare cases, pins and bars outside the skin are used to hold the ankle in position.

Now, X-rays are done to check joint alignment and the placement of hardware. Incisions are then closed with sutures or staples. The ankle is then placed in splints or a plastic boot to protect the ankle fusion.

Contact our office today for a consultation with a lead podiatrist in South Florida. You can even schedule an appointment online!

Post Operative Care

Following the surgery, it is crucial to keep the fused ankle elevated above the heart to minimize swelling. By lying down or sitting in a reclined position, you can achieve this. Pain medication is provided for a short period.

After an ankle arthrodesis procedure, patients must remain non-weight bearing on the treated foot for 6-to 12 weeks. Afterward, the tibia and talus are fused sufficiently. Now, you can begin weight-bearing with the help of crutches or walkers. Once patients are fully weight-bearing, non-absorbable stitches or staples are removed 10 to 14 days after surgery.

Patients commonly return to work within 2 to 4 weeks. However, they will work while seated. If you must perform duties while standing and walking, returning to work may take several weeks. Then, once you can bare-weight, you can return to work. Complete recovery may take six months to a full year.

References:

1. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society – Ankle Arthrodesis – http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/treatments/Pages/Ankle-Arthrodesis.aspx