Joint fusion surgery is also called arthrodesis. It is a highly-specialized medical procedure that helps patients with severe joint pain to improve their mobility. The fusion of bones is performed to reduce pain and eliminate joint movement. This surgery is recommended to people who suffer from severe pain and instabilities due to chronic conditions, arthritis or injury. This blog will explore the details of Arthrodesis Surgery, including how it works, who needs it, its risks, benefits, recovery process and more.

What is Arthrodesis Surgery?

The arthrodesis procedure involves the fusion of two or more bones within a joint in order to stop any movement. This fusion eliminates painful movements that are caused by degeneration of the joint due to arthritis, injuries, or congenital problems. By stabilizing the joint, and using screws, metal implants or bone grafts to ensure that the bones are joined firmly, the goal is to eliminate or reduce pain.

This procedure is used to treat weight-bearing joint such as the finger, ankle, knee and wrist. The joint is made more stable and painless by fusing together the bones. This allows patients to resume a more active lifestyle.

Why Arthrodesis Surgery is Needed

Individuals with chronic pain or limited mobility of their joints are often recommended to undergo arthrodesis surgery, particularly when non-surgical treatment has failed to provide relief. Joint fusion is required for a variety of conditions.

Severe arthritis :- Arthritis that causes extensive damage to cartilage and bone in a joint can cause chronic pain, swelling and limited mobility. The elderly are most likely to suffer from this condition, but it can also affect anyone.
Joint Deformities :- Conditions that cause joint misalignment and deformities due to disease or trauma can lead to chronic discomfort. To correct these issues, and restore joint stability, arthrodesis surgery might be required.
Trauma or Injuries :- Accidents resulting in joint dislocations or ligament damage may lead to joints that are unstable and require surgery to relieve pain.
Failed conservative treatments :- If medication, physical therapy and other non-surgical treatment options are not successful in reducing pain or improving mobility then Arthrodesis is the next best alternative.

Arthrodesis surgery can be an effective treatment for people who suffer from chronic pain that is debilitating and interferes with their daily lives. By stabilizing the joint, this procedure can provide long-term relief from pain and improve quality of life.

Arthrodesis Surgery Types

Arthrodesis can be performed in different ways depending on the severity of your condition and the type of joint. The most common types are:

Ankle Arthrodesis :- This procedure is used for severe ankle arthritis or instability. Ankle Arthrodesis can be highly effective at reducing pain and restoring stability.
Spinal Fusion :- This type of Arthrodesis involves fusing at least two vertebrae to relieve pain from conditions such as degenerative disc disease or spinal fractures. Spinal fusion reduces back pain and provides stability.
Wrist Fusion :- Recommended for patients with severe wrist injuries or arthritis. This will stabilize the joint, and reduce pain. This is especially useful for patients with significant wrist loss.
Fusion of the Finger Joints :- When severe deformities and arthritis affect the fingers, fusion surgery is a good option to restore functionality and reduce discomfort.

The procedure is customized to each patient’s needs and severity. The surgeon will determine the best technique to use and what materials, like metal implants or grafts of bone, are used.

How is Arthrodesis Surgery Performed

Arthrodesis is typically performed in the following ways:

Preoperative Assessment :- Before surgery, the surgeon will review the patient’s history and perform physical exams. He may also request imaging tests, such as X rays or MRIs, to assess the condition of the joint.
Anesthesia :- Arthrodesis surgery usually takes place under general anesthesia. The patient is asleep during the procedure and is pain-free.
Bone preparation :- Remove any diseased or damaged tissue from the affected joints. The surgeon will carefully prepare the bones to align them correctly.
Fusion Process :- The bones will be joined using screws, rods, plates or bone grafts. These materials stabilize the joint while it heals. Metal implants may be used by the surgeon to help the fusion process.
Closing Incision :- Once the fusion has been completed, the surgeon will apply a dressing or bandage.
Rehabilitation and Recovery :- The patient is monitored in the recovery area for signs of complications. Once the patient is stable, he or she will be sent to home for the rest of the recovery process.

Arthrodesis Surgery Benefits

Pain Relieving :- Arthrodesis is a major benefit in reducing pain. The joint is stabilized and pain-causing movement is reduced by fusing the bone.
Joint Function :- Arthrodesis can improve joint function by stabilizing and reducing the pain.
Improved Quality of Life :- Many patients experience a return to an active lifestyle after Arthrodesis. They can resume their activities, which were hindered before by joint pain.
Long Term Stability :- The fusion process helps prevent further damage or instabilities.

Risques and Complications

Arthrodesis is no different. It comes with some risks and complications. These include:

Infection :- Any surgical procedure can lead to infection at the site where the incision is made.
Delayed or Non-Union :- In some cases the bones do not fuse correctly, resulting in a longer healing time or the necessity for additional surgery.
Nerve Injury :- Though rare, nerve injury can occur during surgery. This may lead to numbness and weakness in the area.
Limited mobility :- After the joint has been fused, a patient may have a limited range. The procedure is often worth it because of the stability and pain relief that the procedure provides.
Blood Clots :- There is an increased risk of blood clots after prolonged periods of inactivity.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery time for Arthrodesis surgery depends on the joint type being treated, and the health of the patient. It can take several months to fuse the bones and to help the patient regain their strength and mobility. Physical therapy and rehabilitation is essential during this period to restore function and avoid complications.

A cast or brace may be needed to stabilize the affected joint while it heals. It is important to have follow-up appointments with the surgeon in order to monitor healing and progress.

Conclusion

Arthrodesis surgery can be a life-changing procedure for those with chronic pain in the joints and limited mobility. This surgery can restore function and provide long-lasting relief to painful joints that were previously unstable and painful due to deformities or arthritis. As with all surgeries, you should consult an expert surgeon and consider the risks before deciding if Arthrodesis is the right option for your situation. Arthrodesis, with the right rehabilitation and care, can improve your quality-of-life and allow you to return to your normal activities without pain.