Ankle fusion is a serious surgical procedure that’s performed on extreme cases of ankle arthritis. When patients complain of ankle ache because of arthritis, and even after being on non-surgical treatments but cannot see any improvement, then surgery could be an option. For extreme cases, patients who have severe arthritis can opt for ankle fusion surgery and ankle replacement surgery.

Ankle arthritis is not as well-known as their hip and knee counterparts. Ankle arthritis is mainly some sort of strain to the ankle joint, like an ankle fracture. Most patients who suffer from mild or moderate ankle arthritis can be relieved with simple treatments. But for patients who are suffering from a more severe form of ankle arthritis, who have tried simple treatments but to no success, would be required to have ankle surgery.

Candidates for Ankle Fusion
Ankle fusion surgery can be performed in patients of all ages and is the best option for patients with severe joint arthritis. Ankle fusion is preferred in patients who lead a more active lifestyle since they might wear out the ankle replacement.

Patients who are not eligible for ankle fusion surgery are patients who can manage with simpler treatments. The reason why surgery is not a viable option for patients who can get treated with non-surgical treatment is because of the fact that they will have a permanent stiff joint and will be unable to perform certain tasks such as running. As with most surgeries, it does come with its fair share of risks. Ankle fusion should be done with extreme care on patients who have joint infections, or who are smokers, as these types of patients are more prone to developing complications from these sort of surgery.

Ankle Fusion Risks and Complications
Even though the majority of the hospitals who have undertaken ankle replacement or ankle fusion surgery have state of the art equipment to handle such high-risk procedure, it does come with its own set of risks and complications. Discuss all the risks associated with your surgery to your doctor to get some clarification on the matter. Some important, yet unusual complications to keep note of are as follows.

• Infections
• Blood clots
• Injury to nerves or blood vessels
• Negligible bone healing or bone fracture
• Stiffness
• Dislocation of artificial joints
• Pain
• Breathing Problems or allergic reactions