Ankle Arthroscopy

Many ankle conditions that cause persistent pain or limited mobility may benefit from arthroscopic intervention.

• Chronic Ankle Pain: Persistent discomfort unresponsive to conservative treatments like physiotherapy or medication requires diagnostic evaluation through arthroscopy to identify underlying causes.
• Osteochondral Lesions: Damage to the cartilage and underlying bone in the ankle joint can be repaired through arthroscopic techniques to restore joint surface integrity.
• Impingement Syndromes: Soft tissue or bony overgrowth that restricts ankle movement can be removed arthroscopically to restore normal joint mechanics.
• Synovitis: Inflammation of the joint lining tissue can be treated through arthroscopic removal of inflamed synovial tissue.
• Loose Bodies: Free-floating fragments of bone or cartilage within the joint space can be extracted through arthroscopic portals.
• Ankle Instability: Ligament damage causing recurrent ankle sprains can be evaluated and repaired using arthroscopic techniques.

Ankle arthroscopy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery for appropriate candidates.

• Minimal Scarring
  The procedure requires only small incisions of about 1 centimetre, resulting in less visible scarring compared to open surgery.
• Faster Recovery
  Patients typically experience shorter hospital stays and quicker return to daily activities due to reduced tissue trauma.
• Precise Diagnosis
  Direct visualisation of joint structures enables accurate identification of problems that may not be visible on imaging studies.
• Lower Infection Risk
  Smaller incisions and reduced exposure of internal structures decrease the likelihood of post-operative infections.
• Reduced Pain
  Less tissue disruption typically leads to decreased post-operative pain and a reduced need for pain medication.

• Medical Assessment: A thorough evaluation includes blood tests, ECG, and imaging studies (X-rays, MRI) to confirm diagnosis and surgical planning. The assessment identifies any underlying medical conditions that may affect surgery or recovery. Patients with certain medical conditions may need additional specialist clearance.
• Medication Review: Blood-thinning medications must be stopped before surgery according to specific timeframes. Patients should provide a complete list of current medications, including supplements and herbal remedies. Some medications maya need gradual adjustment under medical supervision.
• Fasting Guidelines: No food for 6 hours and no clear fluids for 2 hours before surgery. This reduces the risk of aspiration during anaesthesia.

• Immediate Post-Operative Care
  After surgery, patients are monitored for several hours to ensure stable vital signs and effective pain management. Ice therapy begins immediately to reduce swelling, and mobility restrictions and weight-bearing instructions are provided. Assistive devices such as crutches or walkers are used as needed.
• Early Recovery
  Elevating the ankle above heart level during the first 24-48 hours helps control swelling. The dressing must stay clean and dry, and gentle toe and ankle movements may start as directed by the surgeon. Sutures remain in place while incision heal, and physical therapy may being with light range-of-motion exercises.
• Long-Term Recovery
  Recovery generally takes 6-12 weeks, with physical therapy progressing to strengthening, balance training, and functional activities. Return to sports or high-impact activities follows a gradual plan based on individual progress, with regular follow-ups ensuring recovery stays on track.