Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat various conditions of the ankle and foot joints. It involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments through tiny incisions to view, clean, or repair damaged tissues inside the joint.
This technique is highly effective in treating ankle pain, instability, cartilage injuries, and impingement syndromes, offering faster recovery and less post-operative pain compared to open surgery.
What Is Ankle & Foot Arthroscopy?
- Arthroscopy allows orthopedic surgeons to:
- Visualize the inside of the ankle or foot joint in real time
- Diagnose hidden issues not visible on X-rays or MRIs
- Treat problems like loose bodies, inflamed tissue, or torn cartilage without large incisions
- It is often performed as a day-care procedure under general or spinal anesthesia.
Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy:
- Ankle impingement syndrome (pinching of soft tissues)
- Ligament injuries causing instability
- Loose bone or cartilage fragments in the joint
- Osteochondral lesions (cartilage defects)
- Synovitis (joint lining inflammation)
- Arthritis-related cleanup (debridement)
- Diagnosis of unexplained ankle pain or swelling
Procedure Overview:
- Small keyhole incisions are made around the joint
- A camera-equipped arthroscope is inserted to view the joint interior
- Specialized tools are used to clean, trim, or repair damaged tissues
- The joint is flushed and the incisions are closed with sutures
- A sterile dressing and light compression bandage are applied
Benefits of Arthroscopy:
- Minimally invasive with small incisions
- Shorter recovery time and less post-op pain
- Improved joint function and mobility
- Minimal scarring
- Typically done as an outpatient procedure
Do’s After Arthroscopy
- Keep the foot elevated to reduce swelling
- Use ice packs as advised to manage pain
- Follow your surgeon’s weight-bearing instructions
- Start gentle physiotherapy and ankle exercises
- Take prescribed medications to avoid inflammation and infection
Don’ts After Arthroscopy
- Don’t put full weight on the ankle unless advised
- Avoid getting the surgical site wet for the first few days
- Don’t skip follow-up visits
- Avoid vigorous activity or twisting movements early on
- Don’t ignore signs of infection (fever, excessive redness, drainage)