Your Foot & Ankle Reconstruction Specialist
Fellowship-trained surgeon experienced in complex joint fusion and arthritis management
A time-tested surgical approach for severe ankle arthritis and deformity—designed to address chronic joint pain and restore the ability to walk with long-term durability.
Ankle fusion, or arthrodesis, is often considered the "gold standard" for treating severe ankle joint destruction. By surgically joining the talus (ankle bone) and the tibia (shin bone), the procedure is intended to address the painful "bone-on-bone" friction that characterizes advanced arthritis.
While it may sound restrictive to fuse a joint, most patients find that the elimination of chronic pain far outweighs the loss of motion. For many, walking actually becomes smoother and more natural because the pain that used to cause a limp is gone.
With modern surgical techniques, ankle fusion offers a high success rate and is a reliable alternative for those who are not candidates for ankle replacement.
We use advanced compression technology designed to ensure a strong, biological union between bones
High-strength titanium screws are utilized to compress the joint surfaces together. This compression is intended to promote primary bone healing and provide immediate structural stability.
For more complex cases, specialized contoured plates provide a "fixed-angle" construct. This approach is designed to handle higher loads and provide superior stability in patients with compromised bone quality.
Fellowship-trained surgeon experienced in complex joint fusion and arthritis management
Ankle fusion (arthrodesis) is a surgical procedure that joins the bones of the ankle joint together, turning them into one solid bone. This is intended to stop the painful motion of a worn-out joint, providing structural stability and reliable pain relief for end-stage arthritis.
The choice depends on several factors including age, activity level, bone quality, and joint alignment. Fusion is often recommended for younger, more active patients or those with significant bone loss or deformity who need a more durable and stable joint solution.
While the main ankle joint no longer moves, other joints in the foot often compensate to provide a natural-looking gait. Most patients can walk without a limp on level ground and can wear normal shoes with a slight heel or rocker bottom.
Recovery involves a period of non-weight bearing (6-10 weeks) to allow the bones to fuse together. This is typically followed by a walking boot and then transition to regular shoes. Full recovery can take 6-12 months.
Yes, once the fusion is healed and you have regained sufficient strength and reaction time. If the surgery is on your right foot, you will typically need to wait 12-16 weeks. If it's your left foot and you drive an automatic, you may return to driving sooner.
No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our surgical team to have your ankle assessed and discuss whether fusion or replacement is the best option for your lifestyle.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your chronic ankle pain and explore whether ankle fusion is the right solution for you.
