Arthrodesis
joint fusion.
What is arthrodesis?
Arthrodesis is the surgical fusion of a joint. In a normal joint, the bone ends are covered with smooth cartilage that allows pain-free gliding. When that cartilage is destroyed by arthritis, trauma, or instability, every movement grinds bone on bone. Arthrodesis eliminates that pain by removing the remaining cartilage and fusing the bones together into one solid structure.
The procedure uses a bone plate and screws to hold the joint rigidly while the bones heal together. Once fused, the joint no longer moves — but it no longer hurts. This is a salvage procedure, used when other surgical options have failed or are not feasible. The goal is a pain-free, weight-bearing limb.
Which joints can be fused.
Carpus (wrist)
The most common joint for arthrodesis. Fusion of the carpus preserves good limb function — dogs adapt well because the carpus is not a highly mobile joint during normal gait.
Tarsus (hock/ankle)
The second most common. Fusion of the tarsus is well-tolerated. Dogs walk with a slightly stiffer gait but remain functional and pain-free.
Shoulder & elbow
Occasionally performed for severe instability or arthritis. These joints have more mobility, so fusion has a greater impact on gait — but it eliminates pain when no other option exists.
Recovery timeline.
Bone fusion takes longer than most orthopedic recoveries. Strict immobilization is essential — any movement at the joint during healing can prevent fusion.
Surgery performed. Rigid fixation with plate and screws. Cast or splint applied for additional support. Hospital stay for pain management.
Strict cage rest. Cast changes as needed. Leash walks for bathroom only. E-collar at all times. No weight-bearing beyond what the cast allows.
Cast removed. Follow-up radiograph to assess fusion progress. Begin very short controlled leash walks if healing is on track.
Second follow-up radiograph. If fusion is progressing well, gradually increase walk duration (15-20 min).
Final radiograph. If the joint is fully fused, cleared for return to normal activity. The limb will have a stiffer gait but be pain-free.
Arthrodesis FAQs.
What is arthrodesis surgery?
Arthrodesis is the surgical fusion of a joint. The articular cartilage — the smooth surface that allows the joint to glide — is removed. The bone surfaces are positioned in contact, and a plate and screws are applied to hold them rigidly while they heal together as one solid bone. This eliminates all motion at the joint and therefore eliminates the pain from the damaged joint surfaces.
How much does arthrodesis surgery cost?
Nationally, arthrodesis surgery ranges from $3,000 to over $13,000 depending on the joint being fused, the dog's size, and the complexity of the case. Partial joint fusion (panarthrodesis of only some joint surfaces) may be less expensive. At WMVO, we give you a straight price on the phone — no paid consultation required. Call us at (616) 364-3333.
How long is arthrodesis recovery?
The fused joint requires 8-12 weeks of strict cage rest to allow the bones to grow together. Cast or splint immobilization is typically needed for the first 4-6 weeks. Follow-up X-rays at 4-6 weeks and again at 8-12 weeks confirm the fusion is progressing. Full recovery — confirmed by radiographic fusion — is generally seen by 4 months post-operation.
Which joints can be fused?
The most commonly fused joints are the carpus (wrist) and tarsus (hock/ankle). These joints tolerate fusion well because dogs can adapt their gait. Shoulder and elbow arthrodesis are less common but possible. The hip is not typically fused — FHO or total hip replacement are the preferred options for hip disease.
Will my dog be able to walk normally after joint fusion?
The gait will not be normal — the fused joint no longer moves. However, the pain is eliminated, and most dogs adapt remarkably well. Carpus and tarsus arthrodesis have excellent functional outcomes — dogs walk, run, and play with a slightly stiffer gait. The key is that the limb becomes pain-free and weight-bearing, which is a dramatic improvement over the chronic pain of end-stage joint disease.
When is arthrodesis recommended?
Arthrodesis is recommended for end-stage joint disease where conservative management has failed and joint replacement is not an option. This includes severe arthritis, chronic joint instability that cannot be repaired, comminuted intra-articular fractures, and failed previous surgeries. It is a salvage procedure — meaning it is used when other options have been exhausted — but it provides reliable pain relief and functional limb use.
End-stage joint disease?
Arthrodesis is a salvage procedure — but it works. If your dog has chronic joint pain and other options have failed, call us. We'll tell you honestly whether joint fusion is the right choice.