Talonavicular Arthrodesis
Talonavicular Arthrodesis Surgery in Hawaii
Talonavicular arthrodesis is a surgical procedure used to treat painful arthritis, instability, or deformity of the talonavicular joint, a key joint in the hindfoot that plays a major role in foot motion and arch stability. Dysfunction of this joint can cause significant pain, collapse of the arch, and difficulty walking on uneven surfaces.
This procedure is commonly performed for advanced flatfoot deformity, post-traumatic arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, or as part of a staged hindfoot reconstruction when disease is isolated to the talonavicular joint.
How Surgery Is Performed
Talonavicular arthrodesis involves removing the remaining cartilage from the talonavicular joint and positioning the talus and navicular bones in proper alignment. The joint is then stabilized with screws and/or plates to allow the bones to fuse together into a single, stable unit.
Additional procedures may be performed concurrently to address alignment, tendon imbalance, or associated deformity.
Goals of surgery include:
Eliminating pain from talonavicular joint arthritis
Restoring hindfoot and arch stability
Correcting deformity and preventing progression
Improving walking tolerance and overall foot function
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery following talonavicular arthrodesis focuses on achieving solid fusion while protecting the reconstruction.
Typical recovery progression includes:
Initial immobilization with strict non–weight bearing
Gradual progression to protected and then full weight bearing as fusion progresses
Physical therapy focused on strength, balance, and gait adaptation
Transition to supportive footwear or orthotics as healing allows
Full recovery typically takes several months. Loss of motion at the fused joint is expected, but many patients experience significant pain relief and improved stability.
Risks and Considerations
Risks include nonunion, infection, wound complications, hardware irritation, nerve injury, and increased stress on adjacent joints. Careful alignment, patient selection, and adherence to postoperative restrictions are essential to optimize outcomes.
Office Location
30 Aulike St. Suite 201
Kailua, HI 96734
Contact Information
scheduling@windortho.net
(808) 261-4658
Surgical Facilities
Castle Medical Center
Windward Surgery Center
