The Association for the Study of Internal Fixation (AO) method of arthrodesis has been used in 83 patients (110 joints). The overall success rate of fusion was 96%. At the level of the wrist 93% of patients obtained a fusion, with 96% at the metacarpophalangeal level and 100% in the proximal interphalangeal joints. A low incidence of complications was encountered. The method offers a highly reliable fusion rate with excellent relief of pain.