An ankle fusion is a surgical procedure that is usually done when an ankle joint becomes worn out and painful. This is a condition called degenerative arthritis. Ankle fusion is sometimes called ankle arthrodesis.
Ankle fusion surgery is a procedure performed for the treatment of ankle arthritis. The worn out joint surfaces are surgically removed. A separate cut will be made over the rim of the pelvic bone. This is so bone can be taken from the pelvis and used to fill any gaps between the bones in your ankle. The ankle bones are then held together with titanium or steel metal implants. The bone surfaces are left to heal in this position. The joint though permanently stiff is usually a pain-free joint after ankle fusion.�A plastic tube drain runs from the wound through the skin. You will be in hospital for three to five days following your operation.
The entire procedure is done under general anesthesia. The stitches are taken out 10 to 12 days after the operation. One must not put weight on the foot until the doctor suggests which normally would take 6 to 12 weeks after the operation. The physiotherapist will teach you to hop with a frame or crutches. You must not let your plaster cast become wet. You must not get your leg wet if you have had an external fixator fitted.
