Arthrodesis

Arthrodesis
Arthrodesis is a surgical stiffening of a joint. Following this procedure, the joint is no longer able to move at all. The procedure of open arthrodesis involves a resection of the cartilaginous parts of the joint, often with the removal of the bone underneath them, which also makes it possible for an axial adjustment to be performed. This is generally followed by an internal fixation with an osteosynthesis. To improve bone healing, bone grafts can also be taken from the patient’s own body (taken from cancellous bone from the iliac crest) or an artificial bone replacement material can be attached.

After surgery, the joint generally needs to be immobilised in a plaster cast or a splint for several weeks to ensure bone fusion of the original joint.

The loss of function involved in arthrodeses in the foot and angle region can be compensated for very effectively and always requires an adjustment to the sole of the shoe (a rocker sole). If instabilities are present, an arthrodesis can even restore functions that were previously lost.