Fusion of Joints Treatment & Diagnostics in Chirag Enclave, Delhi
Fusion of Joints
The surgical procedure during which two bones that make up a joint are fused together in a fixed position is called fusion of joints or arthrodesis. Fusion of joints is advised when you experience pain due to movement of that joint. Fusion of joints attempts to stabilize the affected joint, thus reducing your pain. Fusion of joints is a permanent procedure that can be performed in cases where joint replacement surgery may be contraindicated. Fusion of Joints is a relatively safe procedure and boasts of a high success rate.
What does fusion of joints entail?
Fusion of Joints surgery involves fusing of bones that make up your affected, painful joint. This is achieved by removing the damaged cartilage (the connective tissue found in your joints) from your joint. In order to ensure effective fusing of the bones, hardware such as pins and plates may be used. In some cases, your doctor may also resort to a bone graft (surgical transplantation of a part of your living tissue) from an alternate site to encourage fusion of your joints by replacing the missing bone. Once completed, sutures (stitches) close the incisions (cuts).
You can search for an orthopedic surgeon near me or an orthopedic hospital near me.
Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chirag Enclave, New Delhi.
Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.
Who is qualified to perform a fusion of joints procedure?
An orthopedic surgeon is a surgeon qualified in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis, spinal disorders, sports injuries, trauma and fractures. An orthopedic surgeon is qualified to perform a fusion of joints procedure.
Why is the procedure conducted?
The procedure helps treat joint pain and eliminates complications usually seen with surgery. Other indications for conducting the procedure are as follows:
- When conservative treatments for arthritis have failed
- For relieving unrelenting pain seen for traumatic injuries, fractures, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
- For relieving pain in various joints like the ankle, foot, hand and spine
What are the benefits?
Though your mobility may be restricted due to the procedure, there are a number of benefits as listed below:
- Severe joint pain is relieved
- Joint stability is achieved
- Alignment is improved
- You will be able to bear more weight on the joint that is fused with minimal difficulty
- Your daily functioning will be enhanced
If you have further doubts, you can search for an orthopedic specialist near me or an orthopedic hospital in Delhi.
Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chirag Enclave, New Delhi. Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.
What are the risks?
- Infection
- Nerve injury or damage
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Pain at the fused bone or graft site
- Painful scar tissue
- Risk of breakage of the metal implants
- Failure of fusion
Reference Links:
https://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/guide/joint-fusion-surgery
https://www.jointinstitutefl.com/2019/12/13/when-is-a-joint-fusion-necessary/
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/ankle-fusion
If you have an infection, narrowed arteries, poor bone quality, smoke, use steroids or are immunocompromised which may prevent healing, then you will not be an ideal candidate for joint fusion surgery.
Not all fusion of joints procedures needs hospital admission. In some cases, local anesthesia may be required. Depending on the type of procedure planned for you, it can be done either as an outpatient procedure or may require hospital admission.
It can be performed on any of the joints of your wrists, fingers, thumbs, spine, ankles and feet.
Depending on your condition and the procedure planned, your recovery time will vary. Post procedure, your doctor may advise rest. In some cases, you may require a brace or a cast to help support your joint. Physiotherapy may be advised by your doctor.