Fusing a joint means that you won't be able to move it at all - not good for riding. I haven't had this done but was offered for my hip to be fused when I was in my 20s to stop the arthritis. Needless to say I refused. I think I would rather put up with some pain than have a joint that doesn't have any movement.
It has taken me a couple of years to recover from an osteotomy, also known as bone cutting. Mine was on the main femur bone, so an ankle would probably be less. I know that many orthopaedic surgeons frown upon fusing and will only do it as a last resort. I'm sure you will find some good info if you search the net, I used to go on a site called "knee guru", that may even have something on about ankle fusing. They replace all sorts of joints now including ankles - can you have an ankle replacement?? Maybe you should look at changing hospitals, I was under the care of Manchester for years, I couldn't believe the difference in attitudes when moving down to Gloucestershire, their Orthopaedics are fantastic. They really have given me a new lease of life. My previous surgeon wouldn't replace my hip and was content to see me live in pain for years, what a change in attitude at Gloucester. I agree I've had a couple of rotten years, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel now. Recovery for me would have been dreadful if I'd have left the replacement another 20 years (not to mention the level of disability). Perhaps strap up your ankle so it can't move. It will give you a good idea of how it would be post surgery.
Good luck whatever you decide.
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