Ankle Fusion

Ankle fusion surgery, or ankle arthrodesis, is a major surgery designed to treat arthritis in the ankle and restore stability in patients. The ankle joint is located where the foot meets the lower leg. It connects the shin bone (tibia), calf bone (fibula) to the talus bone. Arthritis can affect these 2 joints, over time, the smooth cartilage on the surface of the bones wears away. The Ankle fusion procedure is performed for two main reasons:

The first is to relieve pain caused by arthritis or joint damage. This damage could result from a previous injury, conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, or the natural aging process, which causes the joint to wear out. When the cartilage in the ankle joint wears down, patients often experience painful inflammation and restricted mobility. Ankle fusion helps to alleviate this pain, by stopping the movement that causes pain, bringing patients lasting relief.

The second reason for ankle fusion surgery is to correct severe deformities in the rear part of the foot, which can cause instability or deform the ankle joint itself. Conditions such as flat foot, high-arched or “cavus” foot, and club foot can make the ankle unstable or misaligned, leading to difficulties with balance and walking. Although joint replacement can sometimes be used as an alternative for treating arthritic ankle joints, this option is generally recommended only for older patients without severe deformities or for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis or similar conditions, as it requires a stable joint alignment.

Ankle fusion surgery is done by fusing the bones of the ankle joint thus eliminating painful movement between the bones, allowing patients to regain a more comfortable level of function. This technique is commonly recommended for patients who suffer from advanced arthritis, injuries, or deformities that limit mobility and cause persistent discomfort.

Turkey has gained a reputation as a top destination for ankle fusion surgery, attracting patients from around the world seeking high-quality orthopaedic care at competitive prices. The surgery typically involves removing the damaged cartilage from the bones, reshaping the bone surfaces, and securing the bones with metal plates or screws, to hold the bones in place until they fuse. Minimally invasive techniques, like arthroscopy, are often used to reduce both recovery time and postoperative discomfort.

Choosing to undergo ankle fusion surgery in Turkey not only provides access to highly trained surgeons and cutting-edge medical facilities but also offers an added layer of support through Turkey’s well-developed medical tourism industry.

Ankle fusion surgery may be the right option for individuals who are unable to undergo ankle replacement due to certain health conditions. This includes patients with conditions such as diabetes, osteonecrosis (bone death), obesity, nerve damage, paralysis, or a history of infection, as ankle replacement is not always feasible or effective due to these underlying health issues.

However, ankle fusion is not recommended for people with mild to moderate arthritis. Nonsurgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, are the preferred cause of action. Fusion surgery is reserved for those whose arthritis or joint damage has progressed to a point where conservative treatments no longer provide relief.
Certain medical conditions can make ankle fusion surgery too risky. These include significant bone loss, active infections, and severe ankle deformities. Your doctor will evaluate your overall health and specific situation to determine whether ankle fusion is a safe and effective treatment option for you.

Ankle fusion is usually performed to reduce or improve symptoms of arthritis. This surgery involves removing damaged cartilage tissue and bones and joining two or more bones together. This surgery, performed under spinal (epidural) anesthesia, takes between 1 and 4 hours.

Most ankle fusions are outpatient procedures. Some people stay in the hospital for 2-3 days. After surgery, it is common for the foot to swell. If this happens, you will need to keep your foot elevated to help reduce the swelling. This will help reduce the swelling over a period of 2 days to a week.

You’ll need to wear a brace, usually for 3-4 months, until the ankle has fused. The surgery may reduce ankle movement making you walk with a limp. Ankle fusion surgery generally takes between 4 to 9 months, depending on your surgery and specific condition. You might also need to use crutches for several weeks. You’ll be given instructions on how to move your foot as you recover since you won’t be able to put full weight on it for a few months. Following your doctor’s post-operative instructions is crucial to avoid complications and support a successful recovery.

After 3 months, you will have X-rays to check if the joint is fused sufficiently to take your weight. If so, the plaster will be removed and you can start walking without it.

• Foot elevation and rest: Keep the foot elevated as much as possible during the initial recovery period to reduce swelling and promote circulation.
• Pain Management: Use pain medications as prescribed by your doctor.
• Patients are advised to avoid placing any weight on the operated foot for the first 6 to 8 weeks, using crutches or a walker as needed.
• After a full approval is being given, you can get and assistance from a physical therapist to gradually restore movement and strengthen the muscles around your ankle improving long-term stability.
• Keep the area around the incision clean and dry. Watch out for any signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or discharge.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up visits for X-rays and check-ups to ensure the bones are fusing correctly.

Ankle fusion surgery is performed to treat arthritis. Arthritis can cause severe pain and swelling, especially in the ankle area. In the event that it causes limitation of movement in the ankle, it could warrant for a surgical intervention to be performed. pain and swelling are efficiently addressed with the surgery. Patients who cannot execute their physical and daily life activities a due to their symptoms would be able to resume with these activies effortlessly after the ankle fusion operation.

The cost of Ankle fusion surgery can vary depending on the complexity of your particular surgery. Finding the right clinic for ankle fusion surgery in Turkey is about more than just the price. It involves evaluating the quality, safety, and transparency in care. Some key considerations for choosing a clinic for ankle fusion surgery are;

• Seeking clinics that provide honest, medically grounded advice rather than those that solely focus on commercial interests.
• A clinic that actively listens to patient concerns and builds rapport helps create a more supportive experience.
• The clinic should prioritize the safety and well-being of the patient above all else.

The cost of ankle fusion surgery may vary based on several criteria:

• Clinics with a strong reputation and history in orthopaedic care may charge a premium but often provide high-quality results.
• The surgeon’s experience and qualifications, as well as the level of post-operative care provided.
• The intricacies of ankle fusion procedures, such as bone alignment and hardware use, influence the overall cost.
• Clinics that provide clear terms and conditions regarding clinic liabilities, designed to protect patient’s interests.

Ankle fusion surgery prices in Turkey varies based on these factors. While cost-saving options are available in Turkey, quality and safety should never be compromised. At Prospero medical, we strive for a balance of quality and affordability, ensuring each patient receives excellent care from our experienced team. We provide a transparent, fair pricing structure, helping you make informed choices for your health.