There are several options for this.
There are three bones that make up the ankle joint:
Articular cartilagelines the inside of the ankle joint.
Normally, the cartilage is about a quarter of an inch thick.
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By doing so, the bones are stabilized and can no longer rub together, reducing pain.
Candidates will usually haveankle painthat is so severe that it interferes with walking and daily activities.
If these interventions fail to provide relief, surgery may be the next logical step.
Ankle fusion is not the only option.
For people with less cartilage damage, minimally invasiveresurfacing surgerymay be used to removebone spursthat are causing pain.
Types of Surgery
Ankle arthrodesis can be performed either as anopen surgeryor minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.
You will need to get around either oncrutchesor with some otherassistive mobility equipment.
At the end of this initial recovery period, anX-rayis taken to confirm that the bones have fused together.
If fusion has occurred, you’re able to resume certain physical activities as swimming or stationary bicycling.
Benefits and Risks
The goal of ankle fusion is torelieve painand restore function to the affected ankle.
Doss Bowman K.Ankle fusion or ankle replacement?
Choosing the right ankle surgery.
November 1, 2016.
