Joint arthrodesis in Kyiv at HBMedical (joint fusion surgery)

What is arthrodesis?

Arthrodesis is a specialized surgical procedure that aims to create an artificial ankylosis by fusing the articular surfaces of the bones that make up the affected joint. This surgery may be the only effective option in cases where other treatments have failed and pain and instability significantly reduce the quality of life.

The goal of arthrodesis is to relieve pain, stabilize the damaged joint, and restore function to the limb. Despite the complete loss of mobility in the area of ​​intervention, patients retain the ability to fully engage in daily and professional activities without severe pain.

When arthrodesis is indicated

• Severe post-traumatic or deforming osteoarthritis
• Persistent pain syndrome, resistant to drug therapy
• Chronic instability or gross deformities of the joint
• Consequences of purulent-inflammatory lesions or repeated unsuccessful surgical interventions

On which joints is arthrodesis performed

• Ankle-foot joint (foot) arthrodesis — one of the most common options
• Knee joint arthrodesis — in cases where prosthetics are not possible
• Hip joint — performed rarely, in exceptional circumstances
• Wrist or ankle joint — for the treatment of post-traumatic lesions
• Small joints of the hand and foot — a method of correcting deformities and stabilizing in severe forms of arthritis or traumatic injuries

How is the operation performed

The arthrodesis technique depends on the affected joint and the chosen fixation method, however, the general stages of the intervention are similar:

• Anesthesia — spinal or general (selected individually)
• Preparation of articular surfaces – removal of hyaline cartilage remnants and formation of contact surfaces for osteosynthesis
• Fixation of bones in a functionally advantageous position using metal structures (screws, plates, intramedullary rods or external fixators)
• Average duration – 1.5–3 hours
• Postoperative immobilization – plaster, orthosis or external fixation device
• Hospitalization – usually does not exceed 3–5 days in the absence of complications

What happens after arthrodesis

• The period of fusion (consolidation) – on average lasts 8-16 weeks
• The pain syndrome usually decreases immediately after stabilization of the joint
• Resumption of daily activities is possible after 2-3 months with proper rehabilitation
• Full adaptation and final stabilization – within 4-6 months
• The loss of mobility in the operated joint is compensated by the function of adjacent segments

Advantages of arthrodesis at HBMedical

• Operations are performed by certified orthopedic surgeons with extensive experience
• Use of titanium implants and modern fixation systems that ensure stability and biocompatibility
• Accurate preoperative diagnosis using CT, MRI and ultrasound
• Comfortable hospital stay with medical support at all stages
• Individual rehabilitation program for full consolidation and functional compensation

Our advantages