What is an Ankle Arthroscopy?
An ankle arthroscopy is commonly known as keyhole surgery. This operation involves inserting a tube into the ankle that has a camera connected to it. The inside of the ankle can be seen and problems identified. Through additional small incisions, surgical tools can be introduced to treat some problems.
Who Benefits from an Ankle Arthroscopy?
Patients with:
- Joint lining (articular cartilage) damage
- Loose bodies in ankle joint
- Bone blocking the ankle joint from moving (spurs)
- Soft tissue catching at the margins of the ankle joint
- Unknown ankle problems
A knee arthroscopy is suitable for all age groups.
What is Involved for the Patient?
- Usually day case surgery (you don't stay in hospital overnight)
- A general anaesthetic (you are put off to sleep)
- The operation takes 15 - 60 minutes
- Normally two small 10mm incisions
- Normally, a patient is fully weight bearing after surgery
What is the Recovery Period?
Recovery depends on what is found and what procedure is carried out inside the joint. Typically patients are ready for office type work within 10 days and heavier type work within 3 - 4 weeks. Physiotherapy is sometimes required.
What is the Success Rate of Ankle Arthroscopy?
An ankle arthroscopy is very successful at resolving mechanical ankle symptoms such as the ankle catching or jamming from loose bodies. It is a good procedure for removing bone or soft tissue that may block joint movement. The success rate falls if there are degenerative changes present in the ankle.
What are the Risks of Ankle Arthroscopy?
All operations carry some risk. Ankle arthroscopy has a very low complication rate.
Risks common to all operations include:
- Infection
- Blood clots in the legs
- Bleeding
- Damage to surrounding nerves and blood vessels
Risks particular to ankle arthroscopy include:
- Accelerated arthritis if there is wear found in the joint
- Failure to resolve all symptoms
- Numbness on the top of the foot
Why Have Julian Perform Your Ankle Arthroscopy?
Ankle arthroscopy is a very common ankle operation for Julian. While not as common as knee arthroscopy the same skills are required for both. Julian is very comfortable performing arthroscopic ankle surgery.
I Think I May Benefit From an Ankle Arthroscopy
If you think you may need an ankle arthroscopy please arrange a consultation with Julian Stoddart. You will receive a comprehensive assessment of your ankle to determine if this operation is right for you.
Click here to find out how to arrange your appointment.