Surgical joint fusion is a treatment designed to relieve pain, restore stability, and improve function in cases of severe arthritis or joint deformity by permanently connecting two or more bones.
Fusion is a surgical procedure designed to eliminate joint movement and pain by permanently connecting two or more bones. It is most commonly used in cases of severe arthritis or joint deformity in the foot or ankle. By removing the joint surfaces and allowing the bones to grow together into a single solid unit, fusion provides long-lasting stability and pain relief.
Advanced arthritis: Chronic joint inflammation can wear away cartilage, causing pain, swelling, and instability.
Post-traumatic injury: Fractures or joint dislocations can lead to misalignment, chronic pain, and degeneration over time.
Joint deformities: Congenital or acquired deformities that alter foot or ankle mechanics may require fusion for correction.
Failed previous surgeries: When other procedures haven’t relieved symptoms or have led to instability.
Infection: Severe joint infections that damage cartilage may leave fusion as the best long-term option.
Suitability for joint fusion is determined through a thorough clinical assessment. A physical examination checks joint alignment, range of motion, and functional limitations. X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are used to confirm the extent of arthritis, bone damage, or deformity.
Patients who have persistent pain, instability, or deformity that has not improved with non-surgical treatments like bracing or injections may be considered for fusion. A tailored surgical plan is created based on individual anatomy and activity level.
Who it suits
Joint fusion surgery begins with the removal of damaged cartilage from the affected joint surfaces. Once cleaned, the bones are realigned and fixed together using surgical hardware such as screws or plates. Over time, the bones naturally grow together, forming a single, solid structure. While the fused joint will no longer move, the goal is to eliminate pain and restore better function overall. The procedure is often performed under general or spinal anaesthetic, with either day-case or inpatient recovery depending on the joint involved.
Fusion (also known as arthrodesis) is a surgical procedure that stabilises a damaged joint by permanently joining the affected bones. This is most commonly performed in the foot and ankle, where joints affected by advanced arthritis or deformity can cause significant pain and limit daily movement.
Cost and paying
We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.
Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:
We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.
Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.
We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.
What happens
Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.
Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.
Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.
Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.
You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.
Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.
Is fusion surgery painful?
How long is the recovery time?
Will I lose movement in the joint?
London Cartilage Clinic
We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.
Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.
Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-class musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.
If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.
Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.
Free discovery call
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