If treated early, surgery can be used to remove painful osteophytes (overgrowth of new bone) that can develop and allow more joint movement to return. You should discuss with your surgeon what to expect after the operation. "People think they're going to limp or walk abnormally after the surgery, so they avoid it. For more on this subject, please see our articleAnkle impingement non-surgical treatment. Home / Treatment / Fusion Surgery and Alternatives. Literature reports a range of 10% to as high as 41% of all hindfoot and ankle fusions . Conditions that may need surgery include bunions and hammer toes, ankle arthritis, Achilles tendon disorders and plantar fasciitis. 805.379.4574, 2525 Erringer Road However, this process locks the joint into place which affects the ability to push forward when walking as well as the height of the shoe heel which can be worn. Expect a limp and some swelling for several months. However, failures of shifting hardware, bone breakage from the prosthetic device, and other complications post-surgery would present significant challenges to finding realistic non-surgical options. 2015 Apr 24. pii: 1071100715583353. 2014 Jun;80(2):276-9. It is used to treat pain caused by severe arthritis. This metal or plastic implant replaces the MTP joint, also called the big toe joint. Are there any alternatives to fusion surgery? Your email address will not be published. I am 44 years old and my doctors are recommending fusion. Foot & ankle specialist. Joint fusion is an option if you have pain in your foot or toes that won't go away through other treatments and corrective measures. Osteochondral lesions (holes in cartilage) and bony impingement (bone spurs) are common secondary lesions of chronic lateral ankle instability, but the risk factors that predict Osteochondral lesions and bony impingement are not that well understood and are basically unknown. If youre generally healthy the risk of a serious complication from an operation is very small. Adjustment is important. In most cases, midfoot arthritis is related to a previous injury such as a fracture and is termed, post-traumatic arthritis. Less common indications used for spine fusion surgery that may be candidates for fusion alternative surgery: Herniated Disc. Male sex and older age were significantly associated with the presence of osteochondral lesions in the medial and lateral talus. When someone has very advanced osteoarthritis of a joint, like an ankle joint, we may use platelet-rich plasma combined with lipoaspirate (fat-derived stem cells). Our orthopedic specialists treat several conditions and injuries affecting the bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissue. If prescribed, you should take the medication for reducing the chance of blood clots. 2015 Jan 5. pii: 1938640014565046.