re: Ankle Fusion surgery--any input??

Any joint you've previously injured in your life will be at an increased risk of re-injuring and developing arthritis, especially at old age. There's no way around this. I injured my shoulder at a wrestling meet 20 years ago and my shoulder has never been the same. I've already got arthritis developing in the joint which has severely affected my range of motion.

Go for the surgery. The benefits would outweigh the risks. Quality of life matters.