Which procedure involves the surgical fusion of a joint?

The surgical fusion of a joint is referred to as arthrodesis. This procedure is performed to alleviate pain and restore stability by permanently fusing the bony structures of the joint together. It is most commonly applied in cases where joint degeneration, severe arthritis, or instability occurs and where other treatments, such as joint replacement, may not be viable due to various factors.

Arthrodesis reduces or eliminates the joint's motion, which in turn can lead to significant pain relief, thereby improving the patient's functional capacity. This procedure is often used in joints that bear weight, such as the ankle or the spine, and it requires careful consideration of the patient's overall health, activity levels, and the specific joint involved.

The other options listed pertain to different aspects of orthopedic surgery. Open reduction refers to a surgical procedure that involves creating an incision to realign fractured bones. Closed reduction refers to a non-surgical procedure that manipulates a dislocated joint or fracture back into place without an incision. Skin traction is a method used to stabilize bone fractures by applying a pulling force through the skin, often using adhesive straps. Each of these options serves distinct purposes in orthopedic care, but only arthrodesis specifically describes the fusion of a joint.