Foot arthrodesis in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is an arthrodesis?

It is surgery that permanently joins two or more bones of a joint so they no longer move against each other. Eliminating movement in a worn or deformed joint removes the pain it causes.

When is it done?

For advanced arthritis of the ankle, hindfoot or midfoot, advanced hallux rigidus, severe or unstable bunions, rigid flat or high-arched feet, deformities from rheumatoid arthritis or neurological disease, and Charcot foot in people with diabetes.

Will I limp?

Usually not. Many foot joints have little natural motion, and neighboring joints compensate. People generally walk pain-free in regular shoes and resume many activities. Over the long term, nearby joints may be overloaded, which the specialist evaluates.

What is recovery like?

The bones are fixed with screws, plates or nails and need time to fuse, usually 8 to 12 weeks, with a period of no weight-bearing or protected weight-bearing in a boot. Smoking and poorly controlled diabetes raise the risk of the bones not fusing, so controlling them is key.

Find foot arthrodesis specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find foot and ankle orthopedists. Compare profiles and book your consultation.