Fusion of the Subtalar Joint: Procedure, Recovery, and Complications

To get rid of chronic pain in the back of your foot that hasn’t responded to other treatments, subtalar joint fusion may be the solution you need. This surgical procedure alleviates your pain by fusing the bones of the subtalar joint. Keep reading our article to learn all about this surgery, including the procedure, before and after, recovery, etc.

What is a Subtalar Joint Fusion?

It is a surgery in which the bones in the subtalar joint are permanently joined to prevent painful movement and improve stability. It’s often used to treat severe arthritis or deformities. The subtalar joint fusion CPT code is 28725.

Symptoms

• Persistent pain below the ankle
• Limited range of motion
• Swelling and tenderness
• Difficulty walking or putting weight on your foot
• Stiffness in your foot, particularly in the morning
• A feeling of instability or giving way
• Pain that becomes worse with activity or standing for a long time
• Muscle weakness in the surrounding areas

Diagnosis

Our foot doctors perform the following to find out if this procedure is good for you:

• A thorough physical examination
• X-rays to assess joint damage, and MRIs to assess soft tissue damage or inflammation
• CT scans for detailed imaging.
• Gait evaluation to see how the pain affects your walking pattern.
• Diagnostic injections into the joint to confirm the subtalar joint as the source of the pain.

How to Perform a Subtalar Joint Fusion?

At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers in Arizona, our expert team performs this surgery with precision and care. Here’s how we do it:

1. We use general anesthesia to ensure you’re fully asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery.
2. Our surgeon makes a small incision near your subtalar joint, typically on the outer side of your foot, to provide access to the affected area.
3. Our surgeon removes the damaged cartilage in your joint carefully. This prepares the surfaces of your bones for fusion and allows them to heal together.
4. Then, we align the bones in the correct position by inserting metal screws or plates to hold the bones in place. They act as an internal brace during the healing process.
5. Once everything is secured, we close the incision with sutures. Then, we bandage your foot and use a protective boot or cast to keep your foot stable as it heals.

If you’re suffering from subtalar joint pain, the expert team at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers in Arizona is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward relief and better mobility.

How Long is a Subtalar Joint Fusion?

The duration of fusion of the subtalar joint usually typically ranges between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Here’s a breakdown:

• If the joint requires minimal work, the surgery may take closer to 2 hours.
• For more complex issues, like additional joint damage or bone realignment, it may take around 3 hours.
• If multiple joints need to be fused or significant bone reshaping is required, the surgery could extend beyond 3 hours.

Before and After Subtalar Joint Fusion

Before the procedure, you may have:

• A deformed foot that causes instability.
• Persistent pain that limits your daily activities.
• Pre-surgery tests and consultations.
• Stiffness, instability, and a limited range of motion.

After the procedure, you will have:

• A stabilized foot in a cast or boot.
• Improved alignment, but some stiffness remains.
• Minor swelling, bruising, and moderate pain that will go away during healing.
• Limited mobility until the foot fully heals.

Subtalar Joint Fusion Recovery Time

The recovery time of this surgery can be a gradual process:

• For the first 6-8 weeks, you should avoid putting any weight on your foot. You may experience swelling and some pain, but these will gradually decrease.
• During 3-6 months, you can slowly start putting weight on your foot and engage in light activities.
• By 6-12 months, you should mostly achieve full recovery. You can return to normal activities, including more strenuous tasks like sports, with minimal discomfort.

Complications of Fusion of the Subtalar Joint

Though this foot surgery is generally safe, below complications can occur:

• Infection occurs if bacteria enter the wound during or after surgery. It can lead to redness, swelling, and pain.
• Blood clots, especially in the legs, due to reduced mobility after surgery.
• The surgery may irritate or damage nearby nerves and cause numbness or tingling.
• Delayed bone healing or failure to fuse due to poor blood supply or movement in the joint.
• Persistent pain or stiffness even after recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ankle and Subtalar Joint Fusion

What is the subtalar joint fusion success rate?

The success rate is around 80-90%. Most patients experience significant pain relief after the surgery.

How soon can screws be removed after subtalar joint fusion?

Screws are usually left in permanently, but you can ask to remove them if they cause discomfort, typically after 6 to 12 months.

Is subtalar joint fusion painful?

Post-surgery pain can be moderate, around 5 to 7 (scale of 1 to 10), but it decreases over time.

How soon can I work after the surgery?

Most patients can return to sedentary work within 6 to 8 weeks. Physically demanding jobs may require 3 to 6 months of recovery.

Will I have to go to sleep?

Yes, general anesthesia is typically used to ensure comfort during the surgery.

How long would I be in the hospital?

Hospital stays range from same-day discharge to 1-2 days, depending on your condition.

How soon can I drive?

Once you can comfortably bear weight on the foot, you can usually drive again within 6 to 8 weeks.

How soon can I play sports?

Returning to sports can take 6 to 12 months, depending on your recovery progress.

Subtalar Joint Fusion Surgery in Arizona

Our team at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, with five locations in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, and Phoenix, Arizona, is here to help you relieve your subtalar joint pain. We provide expert, personalized treatment plans to get you back on your feet. Contact us today at 480-864-4082 to schedule a consultation and step toward relief.

Conclusion

The fusion of the subtalar joint is a surgery that offers lasting relief for those suffering from chronic foot pain. While recovery takes time, the results can greatly improve your quality of life. If you’re considering this procedure, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.