Ankylosis

Ankylosis is immobility in a joint that develops as a result of pathological changes in it.

Causes

Ankylosis occurs after inflammatory diseases of the joint, as well as with severe intra-articular fractures, leading to destruction of the articular surfaces. Especially often, ankylosis develops after open joint injuries, accompanied by a protracted inflammatory process.

In this case, degeneration of the cartilage of the articular surfaces occurs, followed by the proliferation of connective (fibrous ankylosis) or bone (osseous ankylosis) tissue. Prolonged immobilization of the joint can also lead to ankylosis.

Symptoms

With fibrous ankylosis, joint pain is noted and residual movements remain. With bone ankylosis there is no pain, movement in the joint is completely lost.

If ankylosis develops in a functionally advantageous position, then the limb can be used. However, ankylosis of the knee joint in a bent position or the elbow joint in an extended position makes the supporting function of the limb impossible.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of ankylosis is confirmed by x-ray.

Treatment

Surgical treatment is indicated for non-functional joint position.

Prevention

To prevent ankylosis, the following are necessary: ​​early comprehensive treatment of inflammatory joint diseases, rational treatment of intra-articular fractures, therapeutic exercises, massage, physiotherapy, and sanatorium-resort treatment.

Ankylosis is a fusion of joint surfaces, accompanied by loss of mobility. Ankyloses are divided into congenital and acquired. With congenital ankylosis, fusion occurs even in the prenatal period of development. Acquired ankylosis can occur as a result of injury, a purulent process, or a malignant tumor. The most common site of ankylosis is the joints of the limbs. Ancolises of the spine are extremely