Definition: Arthrodesis is a surgical procedure, also known as joint fusion. The goal of arthrodesis is to provide pain relief, restore skeletal stability, and improve alignment in people with advanced arthritis.Not all arthritic joints are candidates for joint replacement replacement surgery. Sometimes arthrodesis is the better surgical treatment option for those with arthritis. Arthrodesis is mostly performed on ankles and wrists but it can be performed on other joints. Arthrodesis may still be the better consideration for:
ankles
wrists
thumbs
toes
fingers
top vertebrae in the neck
The ends of two bones are fused together in arthrodesis with screw fixation and possible bone grafting. The bones are aligned in the most functional position, but lose their natural motion. The procedure does eliminate motion in the joint.
Questions And Answers About Joint Fusion
Surgery For Arthritis
Joint Pain
Joint Protection
Related Resources - Arthrodesis
Also Known As: joint fusion
Common Misspellings: arthrodesus
Examples:
Ankle arthrodesis was performed to relieve unrelenting pain.
Source: Wheeless Textbook of Orthopedics
