Foot fusion surgery permanently joins bones in the foot or ankle, addressing conditions like severe arthritis, flat feet, or unresolved fractures. This procedure aims to alleviate chronic pain, enhance stability, and improve overall foot function. Understanding the time involved, both during surgery and recovery, helps patients prepare for improved mobility.
Understanding the Surgical Duration
The actual duration of foot fusion surgery ranges from 1.5 to 4 hours. For example, a midfoot fusion takes about two hours, while a subtalar fusion requires a similar time. Ankle fusion procedures also fall within this range, lasting between 1.5 to 3 hours.
This timeframe covers the period from the initial incision to the final closure of the surgical site. It does not include pre-operative preparation, such as anesthesia administration, or post-operative observation in the recovery room. Some foot fusion procedures may be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing the patient to return home the same day, though an overnight hospital stay is sometimes necessary.
Factors Affecting Surgery Time
Several variables influence the length of a foot fusion procedure. The number of joints requiring fusion is a major factor. Fusing a single joint may take 1 to 2 hours, while procedures involving two or more joints can extend to 2 to 4 hours. Complex cases with multiple affected joints might require 4 to 6 hours or more. The severity of foot damage also contributes to surgical complexity and the time needed.
The surgical approach can impact duration. Arthroscopic (minimally invasive) techniques are quicker, lasting 1 to 2 hours, compared to traditional open surgery. If a bone graft is needed, either from the patient’s own body or a donor, this adds to the time. The placement of internal fixation devices, such as plates and screws, also adds to the total time.
The Full Recovery Journey
Recovery following foot fusion surgery is a multi-stage process beyond the surgery itself. Immediately after surgery, the foot must be kept elevated to minimize swelling, and pain management is provided. Patients begin a non-weight-bearing phase lasting 6 to 12 weeks, using crutches, walkers, or knee scooters to avoid pressure on the operated foot. This period is important for proper bone healing and to prevent complications like non-union, where bones fail to fuse.
During this initial phase, the foot is immobilized in a plaster cast, which may be replaced with a lighter version after a few weeks. Around 6 to 12 weeks post-surgery, after X-rays confirm sufficient healing, patients gradually transition to partial weight-bearing, often in a supportive walking boot. Physical therapy begins once partial weight-bearing is allowed, focusing on restoring range of motion in surrounding joints, improving balance, refining gait, and strengthening muscles.
Returning to daily activities occurs progressively. Driving a manual car might be possible after 12 weeks, while those with automatic vehicles and left-foot surgery may resume earlier. Individuals in sedentary jobs might return to work within 6 to 12 weeks, but those with physically demanding roles may need up to 6 months off. Full bone healing can take 3 months, but complete recovery, including resolution of swelling and return to sports, can take 6 months to a full year.