Etymed
arthrodesis
Definition
Surgical fusion of a joint to relieve pain and improve stability
Clinical context
A 65-year-old patient with severe osteoarthritis of the knee presents with constant pain and mechanical symptoms despite conservative management. The orthopedic surgeon recommends arthrodesis to eliminate pain by fusing the joint surfaces. A 55-year-old construction worker with rheumatoid arthritis involving multiple joints requires surgical intervention to achieve pain relief and functional stability.
Mnemonic
ARTHRODESISt = ART (joints) + DESISt (fuse) + S (stable)