Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows orthopedic surgeons to examine the ankle joint without making large incisions, leading to faster recovery times and less postoperative discomfort for patients.
During ankle arthroscopy, the arthroscope is inserted into the ankle joint through small incisions. The camera projects images onto a monitor, providing a clear view of the inside of the joint. This allows surgeons to assess the health of the joint and accurately and effectively treat various issues, such as bone fragments and damaged cartilage.
When is ankle arthroscopy necessary?
Ankle arthroscopy is usually considered after conservative treatments, such as physical therapy or medication, have failed to relieve symptoms of ankle problems. It is usually recommended for:
- Diagnosis of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Diagnosis of unclear ankle problems. When imaging tests do not provide enough information, arthroscopy can help to make a definitive diagnosis.
- Removing loose bodies. Small pieces of bone or cartilage that have become dislodged and are inside the joint can be removed to restore the joint's functionality.
- Treating infections, as flushing of synovial fluid can be performed more effectively.
- Treating ankle impingement, when the bone that becomes trapped in the joint during movement can be surgically treated.
- Restoration of cartilage damage
- Treatment of joint inflammation
Symptoms leading to ankle arthroscopy
Typical symptoms that may lead a specialist to recommend ankle arthroscopy include persistent pain, swelling, stiffness and decreased range of motion. These symptoms often suggest underlying conditions that are not always apparent through clinical examinations or standard imaging tests.
The ankle arthroscopy procedure
Preoperatively, patients undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes imaging studies and clinical examination to pinpoint specific areas within the joint that need attention.
The procedure is performed under general or regional anaesthesia (such as nerve block) and involves making two or three small incisions around the ankle. An arthroscope is then inserted to explore the joint while the surgical instruments are inserted through another incision. The surgeon can then perform whatever action is needed to address the problem at hand.
After surgery, patients may need to wear a splint or boot to temporarily immobilize the ankle and partial weight bearing of the lower limb is initiated as needed. Ice therapy and pain medication will help manage the pain and a physiotherapy program is necessary to help the joint regain strength and motion. The physiotherapy program usually starts a few days after the arthroscopy.
Benefits of ankle arthroscopy
Compared to open surgery, ankle arthroscopy offers several advantages:
- Reduced soft tissue injury due to smaller incisions.
- Reduced risk of post-operative infections due to smaller incisions.
- Faster recovery and return to daily activities, compared to open surgery.
- Greater accuracy from high-resolution imaging.
Ankle injury prevention
Ankle injuries can be prevented by:
- Choosing footwear that supports the ankle, especially during sports or other activities.
- Strengthening the muscles around the ankle, for better support and less risk of injury.
- Regular stretching, which improves range of motion and helps prevent injuries.
- Attention to walking surfaces and avoiding uneven ground to prevent falls and injuries.
Ankle arthroscopy is a valuable tool for orthopedic surgeons as it offers a way to effectively diagnose and treat many ankle problem , with minimal impact on the patient's body and lifestyle.
To find out more about ankle arthroscopy, contact us at 6943903343 (secretariat) or 6949196061 (doctor) and orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make your appointment.
