Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure during which the internal structure of a joint is examined for diagnosis and treatment of problems inside the joint. Ankle Arthroscopy includes the diagnosis and treatment of ankle conditions. In arthroscopic examination, a small incision is made in the patient’s skin through which pencil-sized instruments that have a small lens and lighting system (arthroscope) are passed. Arthroscope magnifies and illuminates the structures of the joint with the light that is transmitted through fiber optics. It is attached to a television camera and the interior of the joint is seen on the television monitor.
Indication
Arthroscopic examination of ankle joint is helpful in diagnosis and treatment of various ankle disorders such as anterior/posterior soft tissue/bony impingement, ankle fracture, lateral ligament reconstruction, osteochondral defects of the talus, diseases of the synovium, and undiagnosed ankle pain.
Procedure
During minimally invasive arthroscopic ankle surgery, either a general or local anesthesia will be given depending on the condition. A small incision the size of a buttonhole is made through which the arthroscope is inserted. Other accessory incisions will be made through which specially designed instruments are inserted. After the procedure is completed arthroscope is removed and incisions are closed. You may be instructed about the incision care, activities to be avoided and exercises to be performed for faster recovery. Some of the possible complications after arthroscopy include infection, phlebitis (clotting of blood in vein), excessive swelling, bleeding, blood vessel or nerve damage and instrument breakage.
Recovery
It may take several weeks for the puncture wounds to heal and the joint to recover completely. A rehabilitation program may be advised for a speedy recovery of normal joint function. While the joint is frequently protected and immobilized for a period of time depending upon the procedure performed, you can resume normal activities within a few days.