Led by board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Nick Argerakis, foot fusion surgery alleviates chronic pain and restores mobility. Call (732)-320-9173 to schedule your consultation today.
Key Takeaways
- Foot fusion surgery is performed to relieve chronic foot pain by permanently joining bones in a joint.
- It is commonly recommended for arthritis, severe deformities, or injuries that do not respond to other treatments.
- The procedure involves removing damaged cartilage and stabilizing bones with screws or plates to promote natural fusion.
- Recovery can take several months, beginning with non-weight-bearing in a cast and progressing to full mobility.
- The surgery significantly reduces pain and improves stability, but the fused joint will have limited flexibility.
- Potential risks include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, or failure of the bones to fuse, though the success rate exceeds 90 percent.
- Following post-surgical guidelines, such as keeping the foot elevated, adhering to mobility restrictions, and attending physical therapy, is crucial for healing.
- Non-surgical treatments like medications, orthotics, physical therapy, and injections can provide relief but may not fully resolve the issue.
- Choosing an experienced foot surgeon like Dr. Nick Argerakis improves the chances of a successful procedure and long-term recovery.
What Is Foot Fusion Surgery?
Foot fusion surgery is a specialized procedure designed to relieve severe joint pain and correct deformities in the foot. It involves permanently joining two or more bones in a joint, eliminating movement in that area. This procedure is usually recommended for individuals dealing with arthritis, significant deformities, or injuries that have not responded to non-surgical treatments. By stabilizing the joint, foot fusion surgery can help restore function and significantly reduce pain, improving the patient’s overall quality of life.
Why Is Foot Fusion Surgery Necessary?
Foot fusion surgery is often considered when conservative treatments no longer provide relief. Conditions such as severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, past foot injuries, or progressive deformities like flat feet and bunions can cause chronic pain and mobility issues. If medications, physical therapy, and orthotics have not been successful, foot fusion surgery may be the best solution to stabilize the affected joint and allow for pain-free movement.
Who Is a Candidate for Foot Fusion Surgery?
Individuals experiencing chronic foot pain that does not improve with conservative treatments may be good candidates for foot fusion surgery. Those with significant joint deformities that impact their mobility, advanced arthritis in the foot, or a history of injuries leading to instability may also benefit. A thorough evaluation by a specialist, such as Dr. Nick Argerakis, a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon, ensures that each patient receives the most suitable treatment for their condition.
How Is Foot Fusion Surgery Performed?
Foot fusion surgery is performed under general or regional anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort. The procedure begins with an incision over the affected joint, allowing the surgeon to access the bones. The damaged cartilage is removed to create a raw bone surface, which promotes fusion.
The bones are then aligned and secured using screws, plates, or rods to keep them in place while the body naturally fuses them together. In some cases, extra bone may be needed to aid in fusion, which can be taken from the patient’s hip or knee or obtained from a sterile donor supply. Once the procedure is complete, the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches, and the foot is placed in a cast to support healing. The entire surgery typically takes 2-3 hours.
What to Expect Immediately After Surgery
Following foot fusion surgery, the foot will be placed in a plaster cast extending up to the knee. Patients can expect numbness due to the anesthesia, helping to keep the area pain-free in the initial hours. A physiotherapist will assist with learning to walk non-weight-bearing using crutches. Before discharge, patients receive pain medications and post-surgical care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery at home.
Recovery Timeline and Post-Operative Care
Recovery from foot fusion surgery takes time, and following post-operative guidelines is crucial. For the first two weeks, it is essential to keep the foot elevated as much as possible to minimize swelling. Walking should be limited to essential movements, and pain medications should be taken as prescribed. It is normal to see some blood on the bandage, but any excessive bleeding should be reported to the surgeon.
At the two-week follow-up, the wound will be checked, an X-ray will be taken, and a new cast will be applied. By six weeks, another X-ray will be performed, and depending on the progress, the surgeon may transition the patient to a boot. By twelve weeks, most patients can begin wearing normal shoes. Full recovery takes around six months, with activity levels gradually improving up to a year.
Smoking and the use of anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen or Voltarol should be avoided, as they can hinder bone healing. Following all post-operative instructions, including physiotherapy, will aid in a smoother recovery.
When Can I Start Walking Again?
Walking after foot fusion surgery follows a structured timeline:
- 0-2 weeks: Non-weight-bearing with crutches while in a plaster cast.
- 2-6 weeks: Continue using a lightweight cast, remaining non-weight-bearing with crutches.
- 6-12 weeks: Depending on healing, the patient may begin partial weight-bearing with a boot or cast, as advised by the surgeon.
- Beyond 12 weeks: Most patients can transition to full weight-bearing in normal shoes.
How to Care for the Incision and Showering Guidelines
While the cast is on, it is important to keep it completely dry. Using a waterproof cover while showering can help prevent water damage. Once the cast is removed and the wound has healed, patients can shower normally, but they should gently dab the wound dry instead of rubbing it. It is crucial not to pull at scabs; instead, allow them to fall off naturally.
If the wound becomes red, swollen, or painful, consulting the surgeon is recommended to rule out any infections. Some patients may benefit from gentle wound massage after healing, as advised by their physiotherapist.
When Can I Drive Again?
Driving after foot fusion surgery depends on the individual’s ability to control the vehicle safely. According to the DVLA, drivers must be able to perform an emergency stop with confidence. Typically, this takes at least twelve weeks. Consulting a surgeon before resuming driving is advisable.
When Can I Return to Work?
The timeline for returning to work depends on the nature of the job. Patients with sedentary jobs may return after about three weeks, while those with physically demanding jobs that involve manual labor may require 12-16 weeks before resuming full duties.
What Are the Benefits of Foot Fusion Surgery?
The primary benefit of foot fusion surgery is the elimination of chronic joint pain. Patients experience a significant reduction in discomfort, improved foot stability, and better mobility. The procedure also restores normal foot alignment, allowing for a better range of motion and an overall improvement in daily activities. With a success rate of over 90%, foot fusion surgery is a highly effective long-term solution for severe foot conditions.
What Are the Risks of Foot Fusion Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, foot fusion surgery carries potential risks, including infection, blood clots, nerve damage, nonunion (failure of the bones to fuse), and irritation from the hardware used to stabilize the bones. However, with proper post-operative care and adherence to the surgeon’s instructions, these risks can be minimized.
How Much Does Foot Fusion Surgery Cost in New Jersey?
The cost of foot fusion surgery varies based on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, facility fees, and insurance coverage. On average, the procedure ranges from $10,000 to $30,000. It is recommended to consult both the insurance provider and the clinic’s billing department to understand potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Why Choose Dr. Nick Argerakis for Foot Fusion Surgery?
Dr. Nick Argerakis is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon with extensive experience performing foot fusion surgery. His patient-centered approach ensures that each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s needs, prioritizing precision, safety, and long-term success.
