When conservative treatments for osteoarthritis or other types of arthritis fail to satisfactorily relieve pain in the affected joint, it may be time to consider joint surgery. It's important to learn about the various types of joint surgery and understand your options. When most patients think of joint surgery, they think of total joint replacement. But there are other procedures you should know about, including arthrodesis.
Q. What Is Arthrodesis ?
Arthrodesis is a surgical procedure which fuses the bones that form a joint, essentially eliminating the joint. The procedure is commonly referred to as joint fusion.
Surgeons implant pins, plates, screws, wires, or rods to position the bones together until they fuse. Bone grafts are sometimes needed if there is significant bone loss. If bone grafting is necessary, bone can be taken from another part of the body or obtained from a bone bank.
Arthrodesis is usually performed on ankles and wrists, but it can be performed on other joints, including thumbs, toes, fingers, and the spine.
Q. Knee Arthrodesis ?
The indications for an arthrodesis are a failed knee replacement, tumours involving the articular ends, and infections with severe chondral loss. Knee arthrodesis is difficult to achieve after a total knee replacement as the bony ends have been sculpted to receive the previous prosthesis. Firm apposition and good fixation are required. Intra medullary rods or external fixators can achieve fixation.
Q. Who Is a Candidate for Arthrodesis ?
Arthritis patients who have joints so severely damaged that usual pain management techniques fail are candidates for arthrodesis. Depending on which joint is affected, the patient may have the option of joint replacement surgery or arthrodesis. The goals for recovery may be factored into the decision.
The Benefits of Arthrodesis
The primary benefit of arthrodesis is pain relief in the affected joint. By surgically eliminating the joint, pain relief is an attainable goal, barring any complications of surgery.
Consider your goals when deciding if arthrodesis is the best option for you.
Pros : -
Pain relief
The fused joint is stable again
Patients will be able to bear weight on the fused joint without pain
Improved alignment in patients with severe arthritis
Cons : -
Joint replacement may still be better option for certain patients
There is loss of flexibility and motion with a fused joint
Slight possibility of wound healing complications
Recovering from Arthrodesis
After surgery, a cast will be placed over the joint that underwent arthrodesis. Until there is x-ray evidence of fusion, use of the operated joint will be limited. The process is a long one. For example, ankle arthrodesis patients are not allowed to bear weight for between 8 to 12 weeks. Patients should keep their leg elevated to decrease swelling and promote healing, until there is evidence of fusion. While the patient needs to be non-weightbearing, crutches or wheelchairs may be very useful.
Arthrodesis is not without potential complications. Pain at the site of bone fusion, nerve injury, infection, or broken hardware (e.g., pins, screws) are known risks associated with arthrodesis. The most troublesome potential complication is a failed fusion, meaning the joint physically does not fuse. Arthrodesis, though, is normally a very successful procedure and serious complications are rare.
The list of of Orthopedic Surgery in India is as follows : -
For more information, medical assessment and medical quote
send your detailed medical history and medical reports
as email attachment to
Email : - info@wecareindia.com
Call: +91 9029304141 (10 am. To 8 pm. IST)
(Only for international patients seeking treatment in India)
For a detailed evaluation send patient’s medical reports / X rays / doctors notes to info@wecareindia.com
Patient Storys
Successful heart surgery at We Care India partner hospital allows Robert Clarke to live a normal life despite a rare genetic disorder We Care india helped Robert find best super specialised surgeon for his rare conditions.
Arthrodesis Surgery, Arthrodesis Surgery India, Arthrodesis Surgery Abroad, Joint Fusion Surgery, Arthritis Treatment, Arthrodesis, Arthrodesis Surgery India, Arthrodesis Surgeon, Joint Fusion, India Hospital Tour, Subtotal Arthrodesis, Arthropathy Of The Wrist, Arthrodesis Surgery Hospital India, Surgical, Arthrodesis Surgery Treatment, Arthrodesis Surgical Procedure, Artificial Arthrodesis Surgery India, Arthrodesis Surgery India, Health Care, Medical Care, Arthrodesis Surgery Information, Benefits Of Arthrodesis Surgery
