Arthrodesis Surgery

Arthrodesis is a process by which two joint-forming bones are joined together to reduce pain. It is also known as fusion surgery since two bones are fused surgically. It is a safe procedure used in circumstances like severe arthritis, fractures, and arthritis pain in several body parts. When pain persists in the spine, ankle, finger, thumb, wrists, and other joints and other conditions affecting joint mobility, arthrodesis may provide relief.

The procedure makes the bone solid, reduces pain, and improves stability but removes the ability to move that joint. If other treatment modalities fail to provide relief, arthrodesis can be performed. However, doctors consider it the last resort nowadays and suggest it only after exhausting all other options. Ideally, both bones to be joined must be strong and intact for arthrodesis. In addition, the candidate should have a robust immune system for appropriate healing. A bone graft may be used to fuse the joints.

The process of arthrodesis can occur naturally but can be surgically performed to achieve faster results. The bone needed can be taken from the patient's body (autograft) or a substitute such as a cadaver. It can also be obtained from a tissue bank and may be synthetic. The surgery is generally done on the spine but can also be performed on the thumb, finger, wrist, spine, and knees. Arthrodesis can also be classified based on the number of joints to be fused. For example, an operation on the feet can be double or triple arthrodesis.