Ankle Fusion (Arthrodesis)
An ankle arthrodesis is an operation
that glues together or fuses the ankle joint. The ankle joint is responsible
for more than 75% of the up and down movement of the ankle. With the
ankle fused, no further upward movement is present but a limited amount
of downward movement is possible. The in and out movement of the heel
joint is not affected by an ankle fusion.
An ankle fusion is a good operation for certain selected individuals
who are not good candidates for a total ankle replacement. The success
rate of ankle fusion is good provided techniques are used which use
small incisions. It is possible to do the ankle fusion through two
tiny incisions, referred to as the mini-arthrotomy procedure for ankle
fusion. This procedure was pioneered and developed by Dr. Myerson.
Exercise is possible following an ankle fusion but very few running
type activities, ball or racquet sports are going to be possible.
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Left: Specialized instruments inside the ankle joint during
surgery for an ankle fusion. The incisions on the side of the
ankle are each 2cm in length.
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This is the side and front view
of an ankle fusion. Three screws are routinely used for
fusion. They are buried in the bone and do not need to
be removed. |
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