Arthrodesis is also known as artificial ankylosis or syndesis. It is an operation designed to produce bony ankylosis of a diseased joint often done in joints or bones near the joint affected by infection, tumors, trauma, and paralytic conditions.

It is also used in certain cases of painful osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis as a pain relieving measure.

It is important to understand the difference between ankylosis and arthrodesis. Ankylosis refers to a stiff joint irrespective of the cause for stiffness. Arthrodesis always means that the joint has been fused surgically.

The main disadvantage of arthrodesis is that it sacrifices the movement of joint. Thus the function of the limb is definitely compromised. For example, in the lower limb, energy requirements for ambulation are increased. [Read more...]