MSK Doctors

Fusion

Surgical joint fusion is a treatment designed to relieve pain, restore stability, and improve function in cases of severe arthritis or joint deformity by permanently connecting two or more bones.

Fusion

At A Glance

About

Fusion removes the damaged cartilage and secures the bones.

Referrals

Not Needed

Booking

Instant-book option available

Cost

Lincolnshire
£9,000

Nature of fusion treatment

Fusion is a surgical procedure designed to eliminate joint movement and pain by permanently connecting two or more bones. It is most commonly used in cases of severe arthritis or joint deformity in the foot or ankle. By removing the joint surfaces and allowing the bones to grow together into a single solid unit, fusion provides long-lasting stability and pain relief.

Common cases for fusion surgery

Fusion Surgery Is Often Recommended When Joints Are Severely Damaged Due To:

Advanced arthritis: Chronic joint inflammation can wear away cartilage, causing pain, swelling, and instability.

Post-traumatic injury: Fractures or joint dislocations can lead to misalignment, chronic pain, and degeneration over time.

Joint deformities: Congenital or acquired deformities that alter foot or ankle mechanics may require fusion for correction.

Failed previous surgeries: When other procedures haven’t relieved symptoms or have led to instability.

Infection: Severe joint infections that damage cartilage may leave fusion as the best long-term option.

Diagnosing Suitability For Fusion Treatment

Suitability for joint fusion is determined through a thorough clinical assessment. A physical examination checks joint alignment, range of motion, and functional limitations. X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are used to confirm the extent of arthritis, bone damage, or deformity.

Patients who have persistent pain, instability, or deformity that has not improved with non-surgical treatments like bracing or injections may be considered for fusion. A tailored surgical plan is created based on individual anatomy and activity level.

Suitable for

Midfoot Arthritis

Midfoot Arthritis

Ankle Arthritis

Ankle Arthritis

Treatment overview

Joint fusion surgery begins with the removal of damaged cartilage from the affected joint surfaces. Once cleaned, the bones are realigned and fixed together using surgical hardware such as screws or plates. Over time, the bones naturally grow together, forming a single, solid structure. While the fused joint will no longer move, the goal is to eliminate pain and restore better function overall. The procedure is often performed under general or spinal anaesthetic, with either day-case or inpatient recovery depending on the joint involved.

Fusion (also known as arthrodesis) is a surgical procedure that stabilises a damaged joint by permanently joining the affected bones. This is most commonly performed in the foot and ankle, where joints affected by advanced arthritis or deformity can cause significant pain and limit daily movement.

Benefits

Long-term relief from joint pain

Improves joint stability and alignment

Suitable for severe arthritis or deformities

Reduces the need for future surgeries

Durable, permanent solution

How to Pay

We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.

Paying for Yourself
(Preferred Option)

Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:

Bank Transfers
Credit/Debit Cards
Cash (in person only)

Instalment Plans

We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.

Finance Options

Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.

Instant online decision
No impact on your credit score
Multiple lenders for competitive rates

Private Medical Insurance (Limited Availability)

We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.

Treatment Booking Process

01
Online booking/call

Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.

02
Consultation

Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.

03
Treatment

Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.

04
Rehab

Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.

05
Follow Up

You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.

06
Discharge

Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fusion surgery painful?

Pain is expected in the early stages after surgery, but it is managed with medications. Long-term, the goal is to eliminate chronic joint pain.

How long is the recovery time?

Recovery varies by joint, but most patients require 6–12 weeks for bones to fully fuse. Weight-bearing may be limited during this time.

Will I lose movement in the joint?

Yes, the joint will no longer move after fusion. However, pain is greatly reduced, and overall foot or ankle function usually improves.

Looking for Treatment in London?

We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.

Specialist in Cartilage Repair & Joint Preservation

Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.

Harley Street Clinic

Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-className musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.

Transparent Pricing & Direct Booking

If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.

Faster Recovery Outcomes

Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.

Book a free Discovery Call

Don’t wait to find relief. Whether it’s a consultation, scan, or treatment, we’re ready to help. Book a call with the admin team to discuss.

Click to Book