Our Summary

Arthrodesis is a surgery often chosen to remove pain and dysfunction in joints, by deliberately fusing the bones of the joint together. This study looks at using a minimally invasive method called percutaneous plating to perform this surgery on the wrists and ankles of dogs and cats. The process involves removing the cartilage, inserting a plate through a small incision made away from the surgery site, and then securing it with screws. This method has the advantage of reducing the risk of complications such as swelling, reduced blood flow, and wound splitting after surgery. Initial results from this technique have been promising.

FAQs

  1. What is arthrodesis surgery and why is it performed?
  2. What is the minimally invasive method called percutaneous plating?
  3. What are the potential advantages of percutaneous plating in joint fusion surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering joint fusion to ensure they follow their post-operative care instructions closely. This may include keeping the surgical site clean and dry, taking any prescribed medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and participating in physical therapy to aid in recovery and improve mobility. It is important for patients to communicate any concerns or changes in their condition to their healthcare provider to ensure the best possible outcome from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended joint fusion surgery include those with severe arthritis, joint deformities, joint instability, and chronic pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and injections. Patients with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, joint infections, and joint injuries may also be candidates for joint fusion surgery. Additionally, patients with certain types of bone tumors or severe joint damage may benefit from joint fusion to stabilize the joint and relieve pain.

Timeline

Before joint fusion:

  1. The patient experiences chronic pain and dysfunction in the affected joint.
  2. The patient undergoes various non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and injections to manage the symptoms.
  3. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful, the patient may be recommended for joint fusion surgery.

After joint fusion:

  1. The patient undergoes joint fusion surgery using percutaneous plating technique.
  2. The patient may experience initial discomfort and swelling post-surgery, which is managed with pain medications and rest.
  3. Over time, the bones of the joint fuse together, eliminating motion in the joint but reducing pain and improving stability.
  4. The patient undergoes physical therapy to regain strength and function in the surrounding muscles and joints.
  5. The patient gradually returns to normal activities with improved joint function and reduced pain.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with joint fusion surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of joint fusion surgery in relieving pain and improving joint function?
  3. What is the recovery process like after joint fusion surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to joint fusion that I should consider?
  5. How long will the effects of joint fusion surgery last?
  6. Will I need physical therapy after joint fusion surgery?
  7. How soon can I expect to return to normal activities after joint fusion surgery?
  8. Will I need any assistive devices or modifications to my daily routine after joint fusion surgery?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  10. How many of these surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate with this procedure?

Reference

Authors: Pozzi A, Lewis DD, Hudson CC, Kim SE, Castelli E. Journal: Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2020 Jan;50(1):241-261. doi: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2019.08.014. Epub 2019 Oct 22. PMID: 31653536