Known as an arthrodesis, an Ankle Fusion is a surgery that transforms the bones of the ankle into one piece. People suffering from arthritis can benefit from an ankle fusion. This helps stop the aggravation and expansion of pain. Your specialist will make an incision on the front or the side of your ankle to open the joint and perform the surgery. The physician will then, at that point, pack the bones together after removing the cartilage and join them with plates, nails, screws, or other hardware.
Why is an ankle fusion is required?
Before electing for this method of surgery in which the talus and tibia bones are fused, one must know the reason why the fusion is indicated. There are many conditions that require the fusion and without the fusion, a patient may have significant pain with ambulation.
The ankle fusion becomes unavoidable if you’re facing severe arthritis in your ankle. Living with arthritis can cause severe pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
There are three main types of arthritis.
a- Osteoarthritis:
This type of arthritis is due to the wear and tear of the ankle with usage over time. If untreated it gets aggravated.
b- Rheumatoid arthritis:
This is an autoimmune disease that can cause significant deformity and damage to the ankle over time.
c- Post-traumatic arthritis:
This type of arthritis is caused by an injury such as only an ankle fracture or an old surgery to the ankle.
Risks associated with ankle arthritis:
Although an ankle fusion can cause relief from pain, this procedure comes with a few risks. Before electing for this procedure here are a few risks listed.
Infection:
As with any surgery there is a risk of surgery especially when joints are involved. To prevent this, sterile instruments are used, and this is performed in an operating room setting. Additionally, antibiotics are given before the surgical procedure as prevention.
Nerve damages:
There are superficial and deep nerves along the surgical incision and there is a chance an ankle fusion may damage the nearby nerves which may result in some numbness along the incision.
Hardware issues:
As with any surgery, sometimes screws and plates can move or become loose. Sometimes resulting in a non-union or malunion which may require the use of a bone stimulator or revision surgery. Your surgeon will monitor and be on the lookout for this complication postoperatively.
Your post-surgery complication might differ depending on your age and your overall health. For instance, if you are a smoker, and have low bone density, you might have a higher risk of specific complications. Individuals with poorly controlled diabetes may likewise have a higher risk.
Contact us at DFW Foot and Ankle Care to discuss the risks and benefits of this procedure and see if an Ankle fusion is the right procedure for you.
