Ankle joint fusion (arthrodesis)

Need to know

• What happens during ankle fusion surgery? icon plus

  During the procedure, your surgeon will make an incision to expose the bones and cartilage. 

  Next, they will remove any damaged cartilage, before roughing the surface of the bones. This will help them to fuse. 

  Your surgeon will then position the bones and hold them together using metal plates and screws, before closing the wound. 

  As the site heals, the damaged bones will fuse together.

  Fusion surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic, but it can also be performed with a local anaesthetic, such as an epidural. Your consultant will recommend the best approach for you.
  
  We use the latest cutting-edge techniques, including minimally invasive keyhole surgery. This minimises scars, improves wound-healing and helps promote a quicker recovery.  

   

• How to prepare for ankle fusion surgery icon plus

  Before you have the surgery, your consultant will explain the procedure to you, and go through any possible risks and side effects. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have at this point.

  If you’re having a general anaesthetic, your consultant will let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before your operation.

  You’ll need to arrange for someone to help you get home once you have been discharged.

   

• Ankle fusion recovery icon plus

  After surgery, you’ll need to remain in hospital for three to five days. 

  You’ll have a plaster cast on your ankle, which may have a drain in it for the first day or two. You'll need to wear a plaster cast or brace and use crutches for up to three months while your ankle heals. 

  Your consultant will let you know what to expect, including when you can get back to work and your usual routine. 

  They'll also talk you through how to care for your ankle while it heals, including physiotherapy or any other follow-up care you might need.

  Running can be difficult after an ankle fusion, but specialised shoes can help in some cases. Again, your specialist will be able to discuss this with you further. For most people, ankle fusion significantly improves their quality of life and helps them get back to the activities they enjoy.

• Is ankle fusion surgery safe? icon plus

  While no surgery is completely risk-free, ankle fusion surgery is considered a safe procedure. 

  The limitation of ankle motion following the procedure will require adjustment and take some getting used to.

   

• How painful is ankle fusion? icon plus

  During the surgery itself, you won't experience any pain, as you will be under anaesthetic (either general or local as advised by your consultant). 

  As with all surgical procedures, there may be some pain following the operation. However, this will be manageable with most standard pain-relief medication.

   

• How long does ankle fusion surgery take? icon plus

  Ankle fusion surgery is a relatively quick procedure, and takes around two to three hours to perform.