Arthroplasty or Arthrodesis?

Had a disaster ours past 18 months! Jan 2016 went in for what I thought would be a routine longitudinal arthrodesis of my left ankle for severe arthritic pain. Already had a suceesful lateral fusion 10 years earlier. 3 months later after being given the go ahead to start PWB I sustained a fracture to the tibia at the exact point where the screws had been inserted. Another three months in a cast and the fracture had still not healed! At this point I was moved Consultants and from Private to NHS! Next stop was an external fixation for 3 months! This alone had its own complications! Frame was removed 4 days before Christmas, but was still in discomfort! Was informed that the tibia had fused slightly out of line, which meant that I placed my foot on the outside edge!! Orthotics didn't help as I still had severe pain. Now I've been told that the joint hasn't healed and I require another procedure!!! This involves plates and screws and some jiggery pokery!! I was off work for 12 months and after returning for 3 months on light duties have recently been stood down again because I can't fulfill my role. They've been very understanding and supportive but their patience is wearing thin. I've got a phone meeting this morning to discuss my options, including early retirement through ill health.

This is a very worrying time for me. I'm only 54 and was also diagnosed with Parkinson's 2 years ago. I'm an aircraft engineer and I love my job.

Should I ask my Consultant for an arthroplasty instead of the full fusion? I want to keep my job and have some hope in the near future....

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