Ankle Fusion surgery
What is Ankle fusion surgery and why is it required some of the time?
Ankle fusion surgery is a well-established treatment for severe ankle arthritis that causes persistent pain, stiffness and difficulty walking. When the joint surfaces are badly worn, movement becomes painful and limiting. Ankle fusion permanently joins the bones of the ankle together, removing the painful movement and allowing patients to walk more comfortably.
What does the operation involve?
- The procedure is usually performed as a day-case or short inpatient stay under general or regional anaesthetic.
- The damaged cartilage is removed from the ankle joint surfaces.
- The foot is positioned in an optimal alignment for standing and walking.
- The bones are then fused together using screws, plates, or a combination of fixation devices.
- Over time, the bones heal together to form one solid unit, eliminating painful motion.
Ankle fusion may be performed using open, arthroscopic, or mini-open techniques depending on the condition of the joint and surrounding tissues.
Ankle Fusion Surgery consent
Consent Form for Ankle Fusion (docx)
DownloadExamples
Post Surgical Recovery
Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)
- Your ankle will be protected in a cast or boot.
- The leg should be kept elevated regularly to reduce swelling.
- Non-weight-bearing is common initially, usually for the first 4 weeks.
- Stitches are removed at around 10–14 days.
2-6 weeks after surgery
- Continued protection in a cast or boot.
- Gradual progression toward partial weight-bearing may begin if healing allows.
- Swelling and stiffness are expected.
6-12 weeks after surgery
- X-rays are taken to assess fusion progress.
- Transition to increased weight-bearing as advised.
- Physiotherapy may begin to strengthen surrounding joints and improve gait.
Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)
- Most patients progress to full weight-bearing in normal shoes.
- Walking comfort improves steadily.
- Normal footwear may be possible depending on swelling and healing.
- Fusion continues to consolidate.
- Return to low-impact activities such as walking, cycling and golf.
- Final recovery and strength gains occur gradually.
Recovery following ankle fusion is longer than many other foot procedures, and patience during healing is important.
Outcomes
Before Surgery
- Severe ankle pain with walking or standing
- Stiffness and loss of confidence on uneven ground
- Limited mobility and activity tolerance
- Poor response to non-surgical treatment
After Surgery
- Significant reduction or elimination of pain
- Improved stability and walking comfort
- Ability to return to daily activities
- Strong, stable ankle with long-lasting results
Long term success
- Fusion is permanent once healed
- Most patients walk well without pain
- Supportive footwear helps protect surrounding joints
- Some stiffness is expected, but usually well tolerated
Frequently Asked Questions
The information sheet goes into detail regarding the published data between ankle replacement and fusion.
Contact Us
Contact to arrange an appointment
Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)
Cost -
Initial consultation - £250
Follow-up - £150
Prof Lyndon Mason
Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK
Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<
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