Ankle Arthroscopy
Overview
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions within the ankle joint. It involves the use of a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions. This technique allows for faster recovery, less pain, and minimal scarring compared to open surgery.
Conditions Treated with Ankle Arthroscopy :
- 1) Chronic ankle pain
- 2) Ankle impingement (soft tissue or bony)
- 3) Loose bodies (bone or cartilage fragments)
- 4) Osteochondral lesions of the talus (cartilage damage)
- 5) Ankle instability
- 6) Post-traumatic arthritis
- 7) Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
Procedure
- 1) Small incisions are made around the ankle.
- 2) A camera (arthroscope) is inserted to provide a detailed view of the joint.
- 3) Specialized instruments are used to remove damaged tissue, loose bodies, or excess bone growth.
- 4) The joint is irrigated and cleaned before closing the incisions.
- 5) The procedure is typically performed as outpatient surgery under general or regional anesthesia.
Post-Operative Care & Recovery
- 1) Weight-Bearing Status:
- 2) Minor procedures (e.g., loose body removal, debridement): Immediate partial weight-bearing (PWB) in a CAM boot or supportive brace.
- 3) More extensive procedures (e.g., osteochondral lesion repair, ligament reconstruction): Non-weight-bearing (NWB) for 2-6 weeks, progressing to PWB.
Physical Therapy (PT)
- 1) Starts 1-2 weeks post-op with gentle range-of-motion (ROM) exercises.
- 2) Strength and balance training begin as tolerated.
- 3) Return to sports and high-impact activities in 3-6 months, depending on the severity of the condition treated.
- 4) Return to Normal Activity:
- 5) Office work/light activities: 1-2 weeks
- 6) Moderate physical activity: 4-8 weeks
- 7) High-impact sports: 3-6 months
Why Choose Ankle Arthroscopy?
- 1) Minimally invasive : Smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery
- 2) Improved accuracy : High-definition visualization of the joint
- 3) Faster return to activity : Less downtime compared to open surgery
Struggling with ankle pain or instability? Take the first step toward recovery!
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