Arthrodesis of Foot and Ankle—Arthroscopic Surgery Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have arthrodesis, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Failure of the joint to fuse
• Poor alignment of the joint, causing pain and/or an altered gait
• Need for repeat surgery
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Smoking
• Infection
• Some chronic diseases

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Bleeding or discharge from your incision(s)—This may show up as staining on your cast.
• Signs of infection, including fever and chills
• Increasing or severe pain that is not relieved by your pain medicine
• Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea and vomiting
• Numbness, tingling, or discoloration in the foot

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.