Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy can be indicated for a variety of conditions, including:

• Ligament Injuries: Ruptures or sprains of ligaments that stabilize the ankle.
• Cartilage Injuries: Damage to cartilage that lines ankle joint surfaces.
• Anterior/Posterior Impingement: Condition where soft tissues become trapped in the ankle joint, causing pain and limited movement.
• Loose Bodies: Loose fragments of bone or cartilage that can cause pain and instability in the joint.
• Arthritis: Advanced cases of arthritis causing pain and movement limitation, where arthroscopy can be used to clean the joint.

The ankle arthroscopy procedure involves several steps:

1. Anesthesia: Patient undergoes local or general anesthesia, depending on procedure complexity and doctor's preference.
2. Incisions: Small incisions are made in the skin around the ankle to allow insertion of the arthroscope and other surgical instruments.
3. Visualization: The arthroscope is inserted into the joint, allowing the surgeon to view inside the ankle on a monitor.
4. Treatment: With proper visualization, the surgeon can perform necessary treatment, which may include removing loose bodies, repairing damaged ligaments, or cleaning injured areas.

Recovery after ankle arthroscopy varies according to the treated condition's severity and patient's general health. Main considerations include:

• Initial Rest: Rest is essential in the first weeks after surgery. Use of crutches may be recommended to avoid weight-bearing on the ankle.
• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation and physical therapy are often recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and ankle function.
• Pain Control: Painkillers may be prescribed to control post-operative pain and discomfort.
• Medical Follow-up: Follow-up appointments are important to monitor recovery and ensure healing occurs as expected.

Like any surgical procedure, ankle arthroscopy presents some risks and potential complications, including:

• Infection: Although rare, infection can occur at the surgery site.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the procedure.
• Joint Stiffness: Difficulty moving the ankle after surgery, which may require additional physical therapy.
• Nerve or Vascular Injuries: Damage to nerves or blood vessels near the ankle joint.