Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats problems in the ankle joint. This procedure includes an arthroscope inserted into the ankle joint. An arthroscope is a small, soft, flexible tube with a light and a fiber-optic camera at the end. Therefore, evaluating and treating many conditions.

The arthroscope magnifies and projects an image of the inside of the joint onto a large screen. Therefore, allowing the surgeon to search for any damage. And also diagnose the type of injury, or repair the problem.

An arthroscopic procedure is used in evaluating or treating several podiatric conditions, such as:

• ligament reconstruction
• torn floating cartilage
• torn surface cartilage
• ankle fracture
• unstable ankle
• ankle arthritis
• infection
• trimming damaged cartilage

If you have any additional questions or concerns, contact our South Florida foot doctor at 954-906-9272 and make an appointment today.

Arthroscopy Advantages

Compared to traditional open surgery, during an ankle arthroscopy procedure, the joint does not have to be opened up fully. Instead, only two small incisions are made. First, for the arthroscope and the other for the surgical instruments. Other advantages of arthroscopy over open surgery include the following:

• Minimal soft tissue damage
• Less pain
• Faster recovery
• Lower infection rate
• Minimum blood loss
• Less scarring
• Short hospital stay

Ankle arthroscopy procedure

The patient is first put under anesthesia. Then, the surgeon makes a couple small incisions in the front and/or back of the ankle joint. So, these incisions become the entry sites for the arthroscopic camera and instruments. Sterile fluid is then administered into the joint to expand it and for better visualization.

The larger image on the screen is projected by the camera. Allowing the surgeon to visualize the joint directly. Therefore, determining the extent of the damage so that it can be surgically treated. The camera and instruments can be exchanged between entry points (incisions) to perform the surgery. Then, once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed. Commonly they are closed with sutures and covered with a bandage. A splint or boot is often used.

Would you benefit from an ankle arthroplasty procedure? Well, don’t hesitate to contact our office today to find out. We can schedule a consultation with a lead podiatrist in South Florida! Or schedule an appointment online today.

Post-operative care

Following the procedure, the ankle joint is immobilized with a splint or cast. Pain and swelling are expected. The ankle will need to be kept elevated to reduce pain and swelling. Additionally, oral pain medication is often required for several days.

Most patients may be able to walk on the treated leg immediately. However, some need to wait several months before putting weight on that same leg. Although, this is required depending on the type of surgery performed and the surgeon. After follow-up visits, the surgeon will determine when activities such as range-of-motion and ankle exercises are allowed. Physical therapy is also commonly recommended.

References:

1. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society – Ankle Arthroscopy – http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/treatments/Pages/Ankle-Arthroscopy.aspx