Ankle Fusion Chennai, India

What is ankle arthrodesis of ankle fusion surgery?

Ankle arthrodesis, also known as ankle fusion surgery, is a procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in the ankle joint by fusing the bones. The goal is to eliminate the joint’s ability to move, which can help reduce pain and improve stability, especially in cases where arthritis or injury has severely damaged the joint.

Ankle arthrodesis is usually considered when other treatments have failed, and the joint pain or instability is severe. While it effectively reduces pain and can restore function, it does come with the trade-off of reduced ankle movement.

What are the common causes of ankle arthritis leading to the need for fusion?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It is characterized by the wear and tear of the cartilage in the ankle joint over time. It can lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and damage to the cartilage and bone in the ankle.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This form of arthritis develops after an ankle injury or fracture. Even after the initial injury heals, it can lead to joint degeneration and arthritis.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. It leads to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and inflammation in the ankle.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Associated with the skin condition psoriasis, this type of arthritis can affect the ankle joints and cause inflammation and pain.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine but can also involve the ankle joints, leading to stiffness and pain.

Inflammatory Arthritis: Conditions like lupus or other inflammatory disorders can affect the ankle joints, causing pain and deterioration.

What are the benefits of ankle fusion surgery?

Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits is significant pain reduction. By fusing the bones and eliminating the joint movement, the source of pain is often effectively removed, especially in cases where other treatments have failed.

Improved Stability: Fusing the ankle joint can enhance stability, which is particularly beneficial for individuals who experience frequent ankle instability or weakness. This can help reduce the risk of falls and improve overall mobility.

Enhanced Function: Although the ankle joint will be stiff after the surgery, many patients experience improved function in daily activities, as the pain and instability that previously hindered their movements are alleviated.

Increased Quality of Life: Ankle fusion can improve quality of life by addressing pain and improving stability. Patients often find they can return to activities they previously avoided due to ankle pain or instability.

Durability and Longevity: Ankle fusion can be a durable solution for end-stage arthritis or joint damage. It often provides long-term relief and can prevent the need for more complex or additional surgeries in the future.

Reduced Swelling and Inflammation: In cases of inflammatory arthritis, fusion can reduce the inflammation and swelling associated with joint movement, leading to greater comfort.

Improved Alignment: Ankle fusion can correct and stabilize the alignment of the foot and ankle, which can help improve the overall biomechanics of the lower limb and reduce strain on other joints.

What are the risks and limitations of ankle fusion surgery?

Risks

Infection: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of infection at the incision site or, more profoundly in the joint. Proper wound care and sometimes antibiotics mitigate this risk.

Nonunion or Delayed Union: The bones may not fuse as expected, which can result in persistent pain and the need for additional procedures. This can occur if the bones do not properly grow together.

Hardware Complications: The screws, plates, or rods used to hold the bones together may become loose or cause discomfort, possibly requiring further surgery to correct.

Nerve Damage: There’s a risk of nerve damage during surgery, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the foot or ankle.

Blood Clots: As with many surgeries, there is a risk of developing blood clots, particularly in the veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis), which can be severe if not managed properly.

Wound Healing Problems: Issues like poor wound healing or skin breakdown can occur, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or vascular problems.

Pain or Discomfort: Some patients may experience pain or discomfort in the area around the fusion site or in adjacent joints.

Limitations

Loss of Ankle Movement: After the fusion, the ankle joint will be stiff and lose its natural range of motion. This can affect activities that require ankle flexibility, such as running or specific sports.

Altered Gait: The loss of movement can change how you walk, potentially leading to changes in gait and strain on other joints, such as the knee or hip.

Reduced Shock Absorption: The ankle joint absorbs shock and distributes forces during walking and running. With the joint fused, other lower limb parts may take on more of this impact.

Potential for Adjacent Joint Issues: The altered biomechanics can sometimes lead to increased stress on the adjacent joints, potentially causing problems in the foot, knee, or hip over time.

Limited Reversibility: Once the fusion is done, the joint cannot be “unfused,” and the decision is generally considered permanent. If complications arise, reversing or correcting the surgery might be challenging.

Rehabilitation Time: Recovery from ankle fusion can be lengthy, often requiring several months of immobilization followed by physical therapy to regain strength and function.

How does ankle fusion surgery affect daily activities and mobility?

Daily Activities

Reduced Range of Motion: The ankle joint becomes stiff after ankle fusion, meaning you won’t be able to move it up and down or side to side. This can make activities that require ankle flexibility, such as tying shoelaces, stepping over obstacles, or walking on uneven surfaces, more challenging.

Modified Walking Patterns: The loss of ankle joint movement often leads to changes in walking patterns. You may develop a different gait to compensate for the lack of ankle movement, which can affect balance and comfort.

Difficulty with Certain Activities: Activities that involve significant ankle movement, such as climbing stairs, hiking, running, or sports that require quick directional changes, may become more difficult or less comfortable.

Adaptation to New Footwear: You might need to adapt your footwear to accommodate the foot and ankle alignment changes. Shoes with good support and cushioning can help manage the altered biomechanics and improve comfort.

Potential for Footwear Adjustments: Finding comfortable and supportive footwear can be substantial. Custom orthotics or specialized shoes may be necessary to accommodate the changes in foot function and ensure proper support.

Mobility

Improved Stability: Many patients experience enhanced stability and reduced ankle pain, which can improve overall mobility and reduce the risk of falls. This is particularly beneficial for those with instability or frequent ankle sprains.

Compensatory Stress on Other Joints: The altered biomechanics can place additional stress on other joints, such as the knee, hip, and lower back. Over time, this may lead to discomfort or issues in these areas, so it’s important to monitor and address any new symptoms that arise.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: The recovery period involves immobilization followed by physical therapy to regain strength and adjust to the new walking pattern. The extent of recovery can vary, but most patients gradually return to a functional level of mobility.

Long-Term Function: While the ankle joint will be stiff, many people can perform daily activities with less pain and improved stability. However, the degree of mobility can vary depending on the individual and their specific lifestyle demands.

Adaptation Over Time: Patients often adapt to the changes in their mobility and daily activities. With the proper support and rehabilitation, many people can return to their usual activities with adjusted expectations and techniques.

Which is the Best Hospital for Ankle Fusion Surgery in Chennai, India?

Shri Bone & Joint Clinic is renowned as the best hospital for ankle fusion surgery in Chennai, India. Our clinic features top orthopedic specialists dedicated to delivering exceptional care and innovative treatments. By focusing on personalized patient care, advanced surgical techniques, and comprehensive post-operative support, we ensure the highest standards of medical excellence. 

Our team’s expertise and commitment make us the preferred choice for effective ankle fusion surgery. We help patients regain mobility and enhance their quality of life. We have the best orthopedic specialists in Chennai. Trust Shri Bone & Joint Clinic for unparalleled orthopedic care and optimal surgical outcomes.

Who is the Best Doctor for Ankle Arthrodesis Surgery in Chennai, India?

Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy from Shri Bone & Joint Clinic is widely recognized as one of the leading experts in ankle arthrodesis surgery in Chennai, India. With extensive experience and a commitment to cutting-edge orthopedic care, Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy is known for his skillful approach to ankle fusion procedures and personalized patient care. 

His expertise, combined with the advanced facilities at Shri Bone & Joint Clinic, ensures optimal outcomes for patients undergoing ankle arthrodesis. Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy is a highly recommended choice for those seeking top-notch care and successful surgical results.

How much does Ankle Arthrodesis / Fusion Surgery cost in Chennai, India?

The cost of ankle arthrodesis (fusion) surgery in Chennai, India, can vary based on several factors, including the hospital or clinic, the surgeon’s expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and the type of facility used. On average, the cost of ankle fusion surgery in Chennai ranges from approximately ₹1,00,000 to ₹3,00,000 (about $1,200 to $3,600 USD).

Get the best Ankle Pain Treatment in Chennai from Shri Bone & Joint Clinic at an affordable price.