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Ankle fusion, also known as arthrodesis, converts a stiff painful joint into a stiffer but painless joint. The remaining damaged cartilage is removed and the bones are held together with screws or plates until they fuse. Techniques include arthroscopic keyhole surgery and open surgery. Complex deformity or an affected subtalar joint may require a tibiotalocalcaneal intramedullary nail. The page discusses prolonged immobilisation, risks, recovery and postoperative complications.
