Definition of "arthrodesis" [ar•throd•e•sis]

• The surgical fixation of a joint, ultimately resulting in bone fusion. Basically, the procedure is artificially induced ankylosis performed to relieve pain or provide support in a diseased or injured joint. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Wrists (front paws) and ankles (back paws) can be fused in a procedure called arthrodesis, Baltzer said."
• "For a bit of background: many, many moons ago, I had a triple arthrodesis done on both feet – surgery that, essentially, rearranged bones in my feet to stabilize my ankles, which were beginning to go over on their sides when I stood up."
• "Before performing arthrodesis, the surgeon must decide whether the patient will be better off with a stiff joint or with a weak and movable ankle supported by apparatus."