Subtalar fusion at Nuffield Health at St Bartholomew's Hospital

Your subtalar joint sits just below your ankle joint. Where your ankle joint only allows for up and down movement, your subtalar joint allows your foot to move in circulator rotations and side to side making walking on uneven surfaces possible. Over time the bone surfaces in your subtalar joint can suffer wear and tear due to injury or arthritis.

What happens during subtalar fusion?

Subtalar fusion is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Your surgeon will make an incision (cut) on the outside of your ankle. They will clean and clear any damaged joint surfaces and fix your joint together using one or two screws through the back of your heel. You will not feel the screw and it does not need to be removed. 

Subtalar fusion is sometimes performed arthroscopically. Be sure and discuss what method will be used with your surgeon. 

Your ankle will have a cast applied immediately following surgery. You may have a small tube (drain) in your wound to drain any excess fluid.

After your subtalar fusion

You should not put your weight on your fused ankle following surgery. Our physiotherapists will visit you to teach you how to move around with a walker or crutches. They will work with you to ensure you are moving about on your own before you are discharged.

Going home after subtalar fusion

Your subtalar joint needs to be fully fused before you can drive. Please arrange for someone to take you home and look in on you in the first few days. You should rest and keep your leg elevated to control swelling. You will need to come back to have your stitches removed. You may be given a lighter weight cast. 

Be sure and take any pain medications as directed. 

Your surgeon may schedule regular x-rays to assess the extent of fusion. As the fusion gets stronger you may be allowed to start putting weight on your foot. You might need to work with a physiotherapist to learn to walk without a limp. 

Be sure and discuss any return to work with your surgeon.

Most patients make a good recovery from subtalar fusion. You should discuss returning to any sport or other rigorous activities with your surgeon.