If you’re living with constant joint pain, stiffness, or instability in your hand or wrist, joint fusion (arthrodesis) may offer lasting relief. Dr. Ketan Sharma performs this procedure to help patients regain strength and stability when other treatments haven’t worked, especially for those dealing with arthritis or severe joint degeneration.
What is Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)?
Joint fusion, also known as arthrodesis, is a surgical procedure used to permanently join two or more bones in a joint. By eliminating motion in the affected joint, the procedure helps reduce chronic pain and improve stability, especially in cases of severe arthritis, deformity, or joint damage. During surgery, Dr. Sharma removes the damaged cartilage and uses plates, screws, or bone grafts to fuse the bones. Over time, the bones heal as one solid unit, restoring strength and alignment for improved function and reduced discomfort.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms Indicating You May Need Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)?
If you’re experiencing persistent joint discomfort or limited mobility that interferes with daily life, joint fusion (arthrodesis) may be a surgical option to consider. Arthrodesis is recommended when symptoms persist despite medication, therapy, or less invasive interventions. Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Ongoing joint pain that limits hand or wrist function
- Joint instability or weakness during grip or movement
- Noticeable joint deformity or misalignment
- Stiffness that worsens over time despite therapy
- Difficulty performing everyday tasks like writing or lifting objects
- Pain that persists even when the joint is at rest
What Does Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis) Treat?
Joint fusion (arthrodesis) is typically recommended for patients with severe joint damage that causes chronic pain, instability, or deformity, especially when other treatments have failed. The procedure is most often used in the hand and wrist to restore function and reduce pain by eliminating the source of motion in a worn or unstable joint.
It is particularly effective for individuals suffering from advanced degenerative conditions or traumatic injuries that are unresponsive to conservative treatments.
What Happens During Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)?
During joint fusion surgery, Dr. Sharma begins by making a precise incision over the affected joint, commonly in the hand or wrist. He carefully exposes the joint surfaces and removes all remaining cartilage, which is often worn or damaged due to arthritis or injury. This step is crucial, as bone-to-bone contact is necessary for successful fusion. Next, he reshapes the bone ends to ensure proper alignment and prepares them for fusion into a single structure.
Once the joint surfaces are properly positioned, Dr. Sharma inserts specialized hardware—such as metal plates, screws, or wires—to hold the bones securely in place. In some cases, he may also use a bone graft taken from the patient’s own body or a donor to promote healing. The area is then closed with sutures, and the joint is immobilized to allow the bones to fuse naturally.
What is Recovery Like After Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)?
Recovery after joint fusion can take several weeks to months, depending on the joint involved and your overall health. You may experience swelling, stiffness, and soreness in the early stages, which is normal. During this time, the fused bones gradually grow together into one solid unit. You’ll likely need to wear a cast or splint to keep the joint stable, and you may have limited use of your hand or wrist at first.
To support your recovery, you’ll need to:
- Follow Dr. Sharma’s instructions for wound care and activity restrictions
- Wear your splint or cast exactly as prescribed
- Elevate the limb regularly to reduce swelling
- Take prescribed medications to manage pain or prevent infection
- Avoid heavy lifting or gripping during the early healing phase
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor bone fusion progress
- Begin physical therapy when recommended to restore strength and mobility
Why Choose Dr. Sharma for Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)?
Dr. Ketan Sharma is a board-certified hand and nerve surgeon who specializes in advanced surgical treatments for joint dysfunction. With extensive training in microsurgery and complex nerve procedures, Dr. Sharma offers a highly skilled, evidence-based approach to joint fusion (arthrodesis). He is committed to restoring strength, stability, and comfort for patients whose lives are disrupted by severe arthritis or trauma. Each surgery is tailored to your unique condition, with a focus on achieving long-term results and enhancing your function.
Here’s why patients trust Dr. Sharma for joint fusion:
- Performs joint fusion using the latest fixation techniques and technology
- Offers deep expertise in treating hand and wrist arthritis surgically
- Prioritizes functional outcomes and long-term pain relief
- Provides attentive, personalized care before and after surgery
- Has a proven track record of helping patients regain independence
To explore whether joint fusion is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sharma today.
