Procedure
Ankle Arthrodesis
For Ankle Osteoarthritis
What It Involves
Ankle arthrodesis permanently joins the tibia (shin bone) and talus (ankle bone), eliminating movement at the arthritic joint and thereby eliminating the pain arising from it. The cartilage is removed from both joint surfaces, the bones are compressed together in a carefully chosen position, and fixation is applied using screws or a plate to hold the bones while they fuse.
The foot is positioned with the ankle at a right angle and in slight outward rotation to optimise walking mechanics. The procedure is performed under general or regional anaesthesia and typically takes 60–90 minutes.
Most patients walk with a near-normal pattern after fusion, particularly with a rocker-bottom shoe — a subtle gait change is common but usually not noticeable to others. A rocker-bottom or cushioned-sole shoe is recommended long-term to compensate for the loss of ankle motion.
Recovery Timeline
Everyone heals at a different rate — this timeline is a guide.
Weeks 1–2
Non-weight-bearing in a cast, with strict foot elevation. The wound is checked and sutures removed at 2 weeks.
Weeks 2–6
Continued non-weight-bearing with elevation, ahead of the 6-week X-ray.
Weeks 6–12
If the X-ray is satisfactory, graduated weight-bearing in a boot commences, transitioning into supportive, rocker-bottom footwear from around 8–10 weeks, with physiotherapy for gait rehabilitation.
3 months
An X-ray confirms fusion and most daily activities can resume.
3–6 months
Fuller return to activity, with a final review and discharge once fusion is confirmed.