Ankle Fusion in Vietnam

Severe ankle arthritis, chronic ankle pain after trauma, or progressive joint deformity can dramatically limit a patient’s ability to walk, work, and enjoy daily life. When conservative treatments fail, ankle fusion—also known as arthrodesis—remains one of the most reliable surgical solutions. As global patients seek affordable, high-quality orthopedic care, Vietnam has become a rising destination for ankle fusion surgery, offering advanced techniques, experienced surgeons, and excellent rehabilitation at a fraction of Western prices.

This complete guide provides international patients with everything they need to know about Ankle Fusion in Vietnam, including the procedure, benefits, recovery, costs, hospital recommendations, and the full medical-tourism journey.

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What Is Ankle Fusion?

Ankle fusion (arthrodesis) is a surgical procedure in which the damaged ankle joint—typically between the tibia (shinbone) and the talus (ankle bone)—is permanently joined together. By eliminating movement in the joint, ankle fusion removes the painful friction caused by severe arthritis or joint degeneration.

The procedure involves:

• Removing worn-out cartilage

• Correcting deformity

• Aligning the bones into an optimal position

• Fixing them with screws or plates until they fuse into one solid bone

Ankle fusion has been used for decades and is considered the gold standard treatment for severe ankle arthritis in younger or highly active patients.

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Why Do Patients Need Ankle Fusion?

Ankle fusion may be recommended for:

• Severe osteoarthritis

• Post-traumatic arthritis (common after motorcycle accidents)

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Chronic ankle instability

• Severe deformity such as varus or valgus misalignment

• Failed ankle replacement

• Persistent pain that does not respond to medication, injections, or physical therapy

Patients who undergo ankle fusion typically have major difficulty walking, standing, or bearing weight, significantly affecting their quality of life.

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Why Choose Vietnam for Ankle Fusion Surgery?

Vietnam’s orthopedic and trauma-surgery sector has grown rapidly, driven by improved training, international standards, and access to global medical technologies. Here are the top reasons international patients choose Vietnam:

1. Highly Experienced Orthopedic Surgeons

Vietnamese surgeons perform a large number of ankle fusions due to the high rate of traffic-related injuries. Many specialists have trained in France, South Korea, Japan, Australia, or the United States and bring international expertise to their practice.

2. Advanced Surgical Techniques

Modern private hospitals offer:

• Minimally invasive ankle fusion

• Arthroscopic ankle fusion

• Open fusion for severe deformity

• 3D imaging and CT-guided surgical planning

• High-quality titanium screws and plates

3. Affordable Costs Compared to Western Countries

Ankle fusion in Vietnam often costs 60–80% less than in Europe, the US, or Australia.

Estimated comparison:

• Vietnam: USD 3,000–6,000

• Thailand: USD 6,000–10,000

• Singapore: USD 12,000–18,000

• USA/Australia: USD 25,000–45,000+

Patients enjoy world-class care at a fraction of the price.

4. Fast Scheduling, No Waiting Lists

Private hospitals in Vietnam offer quick consultations and fast surgical scheduling—ideal for patients seeking efficient care.

5. Excellent Rehabilitation Services

Physiotherapy centers provide tailored recovery programs with:

• Gait training

• Weight-bearing guidance

• Pain management

• Strengthening exercises

This ensures a smooth, structured recovery process.

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Types of Ankle Fusion Performed in Vietnam

1. Open Ankle Fusion

Traditional but effective.
Allows the surgeon to correct severe deformity and achieve strong fixation.

2. Arthroscopic Ankle Fusion

Minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera.
Benefits include:

• Less blood loss

• Smaller scars

• Faster healing

• Lower infection risk

Many modern hospitals in Vietnam specialize in this technique.

3. Triple Fusion

Involves fusing three joints in the hindfoot.
Used for complex deformity, flatfoot, or severe arthritis.

4. Revision Fusion

Performed when a previous fusion or ankle replacement fails.

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How Ankle Fusion Surgery Is Performed

1. Preoperative Evaluation

Patients undergo:

• X-rays

• CT scan (if needed for deformity correction)

• Blood tests

• Gait assessment

• Review of medical history and medications

A personalized surgical plan is created based on the degree of arthritis and joint alignment.

2. During the Surgery

Ankle fusion typically takes 1–2 hours and includes:

• General or spinal anesthesia

• Removal of damaged cartilage

• Correction of alignment

• Placement of screws or plates to hold bones in place

• Verification of stability using imaging

Some cases use bone graft to enhance fusion.

3. After the Procedure

Patients stay in the hospital for 1–3 days for:

• Pain control

• Wound monitoring

• Mobility training with crutches

A cast or boot is usually worn for several weeks.

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Benefits of Ankle Fusion

• Eliminates chronic ankle pain

• Restores stability and weight-bearing ability

• Corrects deformity

• Highly durable—results last a lifetime

• Allows patients to return to walking and daily activities

• Safer than ankle replacement for younger and active patients

Most patients report dramatic pain relief once fusion is complete.

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Recovery Timeline After Ankle Fusion in Vietnam

Recovery is gradual but predictable.

Weeks 1–6

• Non-weight bearing (crutches or walker)

• Cast or boot for protection

• Swelling and bruising gradually improve

Weeks 6–12

• Begin partial weight bearing (as advised by surgeon)

• Transition to removable boot

• Early physiotherapy

Months 3–6

• X-ray confirms fusion

• Full weight bearing allowed

• Gait training and strengthening exercises

Months 6–12

• Gradual return to normal activities

• Long-term improvement in comfort and mobility

Most patients walk comfortably with little or no pain after complete bone fusion.

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Possible Risks and Complications

Although ankle fusion is safe, risks include:

• Delayed bone healing

• Non-union (rare with proper fixation)

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Hardware irritation

• Nearby joint arthritis (over many years)

Vietnamese hospitals reduce risks through sterile technique, high-quality implants, and personalized aftercare.

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Cost of Ankle Fusion in Vietnam

Prices depend on:

• Surgical technique (open vs. arthroscopic)

• Hospital selection

• Surgeon’s expertise

• Need for bone graft or additional fixation

• Length of hospital stay

Estimated range:

• Standard Ankle Fusion: USD 3,000–5,000

• Arthroscopic Fusion: USD 4,000–6,000

• Complex or Revision Fusion: USD 6,000–8,000

Packages usually include:

• Hospital stay

• Surgeon and anesthesia fees

• Implants (plates, screws)

• Pre-operative tests

• Post-operative care

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Best Hospitals for Ankle Fusion in Vietnam

🏥 Vinmec International Hospital (nationwide)

Advanced orthopedic center specializing in minimally invasive fusion.

🏥 FV Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City)

JCI-accredited with strong trauma and sports medicine services.

🏥 Tam Anh General Hospital (Hanoi & HCMC)

Known for orthopedic excellence and modern imaging.

🏥 City International Hospital (HCMC)

Affordable, high-quality orthopedic surgery options.

🏥 HCMC Orthopedics and Traumatology Hospital

High-volume trauma center with experienced surgeons.

These hospitals offer English-speaking staff and international-patient services tailored for foreigners.

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The Medical Tourism Journey for Ankle Fusion in Vietnam

1. Medical Inquiry

Patients send X-rays or CT scans for evaluation.

2. Treatment Plan & Quotation

The surgeon reviews the case and provides a clear, transparent plan.

3. Travel Arrangements

Hospitals or medical-tourism providers assist with visas, airport transfers, hotels, and scheduling.

4. Surgery & Hospital Stay

Patients receive 24/7 nursing care and postoperative support.

5. Rehabilitation

Early physiotherapy optimizes bone fusion and mobility.

6. Follow-Up After Returning Home

Online consultations ensure proper healing and long-term results.

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Conclusion

Ankle fusion offers long-lasting pain relief, stability, and restored walking ability for patients suffering from severe ankle arthritis, deformity, or post-traumatic joint damage. With advanced surgical techniques, skilled orthopedic surgeons, modern facilities, and competitive costs, Vietnam is one of Asia’s most reliable destinations for ankle fusion surgery.

Whether you require minimally invasive arthroscopic fusion, open fusion for deformity correction, or revision surgery, Vietnam provides safe, high-quality orthopedic care with excellent outcomes.