Arthrodesis

Arthrodesis is a surgical procedure that fuses two bones in a joint together to form a permanently fixed, rigid joint. Its main purpose is to relieve pain associated with arthritis and other joint conditions, and to restore stability and motion to the affected joint. This procedure normally involves the removal of soft tissue, such as a ligament or tendon, followed by the insertion of metal screws and plates to hold the joint in its new position. Arthrodesis can be used in many different joints, including the hip, knee, shoulder, elbow, ankle, and wrist, and is an effective way to treat severe joint damage or deformity that cannot be improved with other treatments.