Definition

A surgical procedure that permanently connects two bones in a joint, preventing movement and often relieving pain.

Example

The doctor recommended arthrodesis to help with the patient's severe joint pain.

Conversation

I heard you had surgery on your ankle last week.

Yeah, they performed an arthrodesis to help with the pain.

Wow, that sounds intense! How are you feeling now?

I'm recovering well, but it's going to take some time to fully heal.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Arthrodesis → It is formed from "arthro-" (from Greek "arthron", meaning joint) and "desis" (from Greek "desis", meaning binding or tying). The word refers to the surgical binding or fusion of a joint.

Memory Tip

Think of 'joint' ('arthro-') being 'bound' ('desis') together — that's what arthrodesis means.

Visually Confused Words