ARTHRODESIS

Definition
The surgical fixation of a joint by a procedure
designed to accomplish fusion of the joint
surfaces by promoting the proliferation of
bone cells; called also artificial ankylosis
Indication
For a painful or unstable joint where stiffness
does not affect the function
Example: spine, ankle, wrist
For a joint that is already stiff

Principle of treatment
It involves 4 stages:
1)Exposure
-Both joint surfaces need to be visualized
-Often need extensile incision
-Smaller joints are accessible by arthroscopic
means
2)Preparation
-Cartilage of both articular surfaces are removed
-Subchondral bone is feathered to increase
the contact area
3)Coaptation
-The prepared surfaces are apposed in the optimum
position ensuring good contact

4)Fixation
-The surfaces are held rigidly by internal or external
fixation
-Sometimes in large joints, bone grafts added to
promote osseous bridging
Complication
Non-union