Indications and considerations of foot and ankle arthrodesis.

This article discusses the introductory physiology of bone healing with respect to arthrodesis. The joints of the foot and ankle can suffer many trials and tribulations in an otherwise normal life, and must adapt to instances such as fractures, dislocations, and congenital problems. When adaptation leads to a malformation in the unit structure, surgical intervention is required to restore the foot and ankle complex to a working device. Primary indications for regarding any joint fusion in the human body include deformity, instability, and pain. An overview of the indications for performing joint fusions at the foot and ankle is presented.