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From the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle

Hindfoot Arthrodesis

by Justin Griesberg, MD; Mathieu Assal, MD; Bruce Sangeorzan, MD

Hindfoot arthrodesis is indicated to relieve pain from joint degeneration or from major hindfoot deformity. Although loss of motion from a fusion is concerning in any joint, in most cases the underlying disease has already resulted in significant restriction of motion. The goal of hindfoot arthrodesis is to convert a painful, possibly stiff and deformed extremity into a straight, stiff, and more comfortable one. The indications and considerations for hindfoot arthrodesis are reviewed in detail in this article, and the specific technique of arthrodesis is reviewed specifically.

Keywords: ankle fusion, ankle joint fusion, subtalar joint, talonavicular joint, calcaneocuboid joint, osteoarthritis, arthritis, foot deformity, indications, surgical techniques, bone grafting, postoperative care

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