Ankle arthroscopy is very common and surgeons are able to treat more conditions than ever before thanks to recent technological advances. Arthroscopy is becoming a standard procedure as surgeons are able to perform increasingly complex procedures with less invasive methods and lower risks.

Ankle arthroscopy is an effective, invasive surgery that can treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Instability: Something inside your ankle joint, such as a misalignment of the bones, can make it difficult to stand or move safely. Your surgeon can diagnose and fix whatever is making you unstable during the arthroscopy.
• Impingement: If the tissues in or around your ankle are overused, they can become swollen and painful. Eventually, this swelling causes stiffness that makes it difficult to move your ankle.
  Removal of pieces of bone, cartilage, or scar tissue: After an injury, your bones or cartilage may be damaged, or loose pieces inside your joint may cause pain. Your body may have formed scar tissue inside the joint while the injury healed.
• Torn ligaments: Ligaments are like rubber bands that hold your bones together. If you tear or damage a ligament in an accident, fall, or other trauma, your ankle will not work properly.

 

Advantages

Ankle arthroscopy has several advantages over more traditional surgical procedures. Some of the key benefits include:

• Minimally Invasive: Arthroscopy requires small incisions in the ankle, making the surgical procedure less invasive compared to more traditional surgical methods.
• Minimal Pain and Quick Recovery: Because of the small incisions, patients may experience less post-operative pain and a faster recovery compared to traditional procedures.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: A smaller operation is usually associated with a lower risk of complications and a shorter hospital stay.
• Less Impact on Surrounding Histological Tissues: Because the incisions are small, there is less impact on surrounding histological tissues such as muscles and tendons.
• Better Rehabilitation: Because the surgeon has a more detailed visual picture of the joint, he can perform more precise rehabilitation procedures.

However, the choice for arthroscopy depends on the type and severity of the problem as well as the patient’s needs and condition. The surgeon will evaluate the advantages and risks of arthroscopy for each specific case.

 

How soon will I recover from ankle arthroscopy?

• You should be able to go home the same day.
• It’s normal for your ankle to be a little swollen for a few weeks.
• Walking may be uncomfortable and you may need to take pain medication to relieve your pain.
• Regular exercise will help you get back to normal activities as quickly as possible. Before starting exercise, seek the advice of your medical team.
• Most people make a good recovery and can return to their normal activities.