Major Weight-Bearing Joint Surgery Reconstructive Surgery or Surgical arthrodesis of a Major Weight-bearing Joint Reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis of a major weight-bearing joint involves surgical procedures aimed at repairing or stabilizing large joints that support significant body weight, such as the hip, knee, or ankle. This type of surgery is performed to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve stability in joints severely affected by injury, disease, or degeneration.