Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)
A procedure that permanently joins two bones together to eliminate pain from a severely damaged joint.
What is Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)?
Joint fusion, or arthrodesis, permanently joins two bones across a damaged joint into a single, solid piece, eliminating the joint's movement and, with it, the pain that movement was causing. This is considered when a joint is too damaged for replacement or when fusion offers a more reliable long-term solution for the specific joint involved, commonly used in the spine, ankle, wrist, or smaller joints of the hand and foot. Your surgeon removes the damaged joint surfaces and secures the bones together with hardware such as screws or plates, allowing them to grow together into a single solid bone over time.
Why is this procedure performed?
- Severe arthritis or joint damage not suitable for joint replacement
- Chronic joint pain that has not improved with other treatments
- Joint instability affecting function and daily activities
- Failed previous joint surgery requiring a more definitive solution
- Certain joints where fusion offers better long-term outcomes than replacement
How does this procedure help?
Joint fusion reliably eliminates the pain caused by movement in a severely damaged joint, offering durable, long-term relief once the fusion has fully healed. While the joint itself no longer moves, most patients adapt well, particularly since the joints selected for fusion typically have other nearby joints that can compensate for the lost movement. Recovery involves a period of immobilization while the bones fuse, typically several months, after which most patients experience significant, lasting pain relief.
How quickly can this be arranged in India?
Typical timeline in India
2–3 weeks
Compared to Canada / USA
75–85% faster
Cost savings vs. Canada / USA
70–85% less
Context
Orthopaedic procedures such as knee and hip replacement have average wait times of 12–24 months in Canada. In India, the same procedures are typically scheduled within 2–3 weeks.
Timeline data based on publicly available data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) and NHS/Commonwealth Fund comparative studies. Cost estimates based on publicly available medical tourism cost comparisons, including Patients Beyond Borders. Actual costs vary by hospital and case complexity and are confirmed during your clinical assessment.
How does Medicay Global help?
We coordinate access to this procedure through our vetted hospital network in India, handling everything non-clinical along the way. Your Personal Medical Representative manages scheduling, logistics, and communication on your behalf, so you can focus on your health. Medicay Global coordinates access — all clinical decisions are made by licensed physicians.
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