What is Ankle Arthroscopy?
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that utilizes advanced fiber-optic technology to diagnose and treat various ankle joint conditions. During this "keyhole" surgery, an orthopedic surgeon makes small incisions (typically less than half an inch) around the ankle to insert an arthroscope, a thin camera that transmits magnified images to a monitor, enabling direct visualization of the joint's interior.
Additional surgical instruments are introduced through separate tiny incisions, allowing the surgeon to perform targeted repairs without the extensive tissue trauma associated with traditional open surgery. This approach offers patients the advantage of reduced pain, minimal scarring, faster recovery times, and lower complication rates, making ankle arthroscopy an increasingly preferred treatment option for managing ankle arthritis, instability, fractures, and cartilage damage.
Why is Ankle Arthroscopy Done?
Ankle arthroscopy or ankle keyhole surgery is minimally invasive; doctors recommended it to diagnose and treat various ankle joint problems. This procedure is highly beneficial for patients suffering from chronic ankle pain, instability, or injury-related complications.
- Ankle Instability: To fix recurring ankle twists or sprains and strengthen the joint structure
- Fracture Treatment: To properly align and fix broken ankle bones with precision
- Cartilage Damage: To address articular cartilage injuries and defects through targeted repair
- Ankle Impingement: To remove extra bone or soft tissue growth that restricts movement
- Syndesmotic Injuries: To repair ligaments between ankle bones that have been damaged
Patients experience immediate pain relief and can resume their normal activities much more quickly than they would with conventional surgical approaches. The procedure offers a faster healing process with minimal scarring and improved overall outcomes.
When to Consult an Ankle Arthroscopy Specialist?
The patient should consult an ankle arthroscopy specialist if they experience persistent ankle pain that does not improve with conservative treatment such as rest, ice, and physical therapy.
Seek Artemis Hospitals specialist care if the patient is suffering from recurrent ankle sprains or instability that affects the daily activities or athletic performance. Chronic ankle swelling, reduced range of motion, or the sensation that the ankle is giving way are all indications that the patient should seek professional help.
If the patient is diagnosed with ankle arthritis, cartilage damage or has sustained an ankle fracture that requires surgical intervention, an ankle arthroscopy specialist can determine if minimally invasive treatment is appropriate for your condition.
With early consultation, joint deterioration can be prevented, and it’ll help the patient avoid more invasive surgical procedures in the future.
Consult our expert orthopaedic surgeons for ankle arthroscopy in Gurgaon.
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What are the Types of Ankle Arthroscopy?
During this procedure, the surgeon removes small fragments of bone or cartilage that have become loose inside the ankle joint. These loose bodies, also called "joint mice," can cause pain, swelling, and limited movement. By removing them arthroscopically, patients experience immediate relief and improved ankle function without the need for extensive surgery.
Treatment of Ankle Impingement
Ankle impingement occurs when extra bone or scar tissue grows inside the joint and restricts movement. The surgeon uses the arthroscope to carefully remove this excess tissue and bone, which helps restore normal ankle motion and eliminates pain. This procedure is particularly effective for athletes and individuals who experience persistent ankle discomfort during movement.
Cartilage Repair and Microfracture
This procedure is used to treat damaged cartilage in the ankle joint. The surgeon creates small, controlled injuries (microfractures) in the damaged area to stimulate the body's natural healing response and encourage new cartilage formation. This technique is highly effective for cartilage defects and helps prevent future arthritis development.
Ligament Tightening or Repair
For patients with ankle instability or chronic ankle sprains, the surgeon repairs or tightens the damaged ligaments that support the ankle joint. This procedure strengthens the ankle structure and prevents future sprains or injuries. It is an excellent solution for athletes and active individuals who require optimal ankle stability.
Synovectomy for Inflammatory Conditions
Synovectomy involves removing the inflamed synovial lining of the joint, which is beneficial for patients with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or chronic synovitis. By removing this inflamed tissue, the procedure reduces pain, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle. This helps improve joint function and provides long-term relief from inflammatory symptoms.
How is Ankle Arthroscopy Surgery Performed?
Ankle arthroscopy is a carefully planned and executed procedure that follows a systematic approach to ensure optimal results and patient safety. From the initial evaluation to the final wound closure, each step is designed with precision to address your specific ankle condition while minimizing tissue trauma and complications. Understanding how the procedure is performed can help you feel more confident and prepared for your surgery. Below is a detailed breakdown of each stage of the ankle arthroscopy process, explaining what happens at every step of your surgical journey.
Step 1: Pre-Surgical Evaluation and Imaging
Before the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon conducts a thorough physical examination and reviews your medical history. Advanced imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans are performed to identify the exact problem within your ankle joint. These diagnostic images help the surgeon plan the procedure precisely and determine which areas need treatment. You will also undergo blood tests and other pre-operative assessments to ensure you are fit for surgery.
Step 2: Anaesthesia and Patient Positioning
Once you are in the operating room, anesthesia is administered to keep you comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. The type of anesthesia used is determined based on your medical condition and the complexity of the surgery. You are then positioned on the operating table in a supine (lying on your back) or prone position, depending on which part of the ankle needs to be treated. Your ankle is carefully elevated and secured to provide the surgeon with optimal access.
Step 3: Portal Creation and Arthroscope Insertion
The surgical team makes 2-3 small incisions (called portals) around the ankle, typically less than half an inch each. These tiny openings allow the surgeon to insert the arthroscope—a thin tube with a camera at its tip—into the ankle joint. The camera transmits live, magnified images to a monitor, giving the surgeon a clear view of the joint's interior. Additional small incisions are made to insert specialized surgical instruments for treatment.
Step 4: Treatment of Identified Pathology
With a clear view of the ankle joint, the surgeon performs the necessary treatment based on your specific condition. This may involve removing loose bone fragments or cartilage, repairing damaged cartilage, tightening ligaments, removing inflamed tissue, or treating impingement. The surgeon uses precision instruments to carefully address the problem while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The entire process is monitored through the arthroscope to ensure accuracy.
Step 5: Wound Closure and Dressing
Once the treatment is complete, the surgical instruments are removed from the ankle. The small incisions are closed using dissolving stitches or skin adhesive, and sterile dressings are applied to protect the wounds. A compression bandage or wrapping is then placed around the ankle to reduce swelling and provide support. You are then transferred to the recovery room, where you will be monitored as the anesthesia wears off before being discharged home or admitted for overnight observation if needed.
What are the Benefits of Ankle Arthroscopy?
Ankle arthroscopy offers numerous advantages over traditional open surgery, making it the preferred choice for many ankle conditions. The procedure uses minimally invasive techniques with small incisions, resulting in significantly less tissue damage and trauma to surrounding structures. Patients experience reduced post-operative pain, minimal scarring, and faster recovery times compared to conventional surgical approaches. The excellent visualization provided by the arthroscope allows surgeons to diagnose and treat problems with high precision, leading to better clinical outcomes. Additionally, most patients can return to their daily activities within 2-8 weeks and resume sports and high-impact activities after 6 weeks with proper rehabilitation, making it an ideal solution for active individuals.
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After an Ankle Arthroscopy, What are the Risks and Complications?
While ankle keyhole surgery is a safe procedure with a success rate of approximately 90%, like any surgical intervention, it carries certain risks. Common complications include:
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
Though these occur rarely on a case-to-case basis. Because some patients may experience temporary numbness or tingling around the incision sites due to minor nerve irritation. Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots) and compartment syndrome are rare but serious complications that require immediate medical attention.
Post-operative swelling and temporary joint stiffness may occur but typically resolve with proper physiotherapy and rehabilitation exercises. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions and attend follow-up appointments to minimize the risk of complications.
What Happens During Recovery After Ankle Arthroscopy Surgery?
Recovery from ankle arthroscopy is generally quick and straightforward compared to open surgery. Most patients can bear weight on their ankle within the first week and return to light work activities after 7-10 days.
The initial phase focuses on reducing swelling through elevation, ice application, and compression bandaging. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation typically begin 2 weeks after surgery and are crucial for regaining full ankle strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Patients can expect to resume normal walking within 3-4 weeks and gradually increase activity levels under medical guidance. Full recovery and return to sports and high-impact activities typically takes 6-8 weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and the type of procedure performed.
Note: Adhering to the surgeon's rehabilitation plan is essential for optimal outcomes and preventing future complications.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Ankle Arthroscopy in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals is the premier destination for ankle arthroscopy in Gurgaon, offering world-class orthopedic care backed by advanced technology and expert surgeons. The hospital is JCI and NABH accredited, ensuring adherence to international standards of patient safety and surgical excellence. Our foot and ankle surgery specialists have extensive experience in performing minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures with outstanding clinical outcomes.
Artemis Hospitals is equipped with state-of-the-art arthroscopic technology and modern surgical facilities that enable precise diagnosis and treatment of complex ankle conditions. The hospital provides comprehensive post-operative care, including professional physiotherapy and rehabilitation services, ensuring faster recovery and optimal results.
Additionally, Artemis is empanelled with multiple insurance providers and major health insurance companies, making quality orthopedic care accessible and affordable for all patients. Our patient-centric approach, combined with expert surgical skills and advanced infrastructure, makes Artemis Hospitals the trusted choice for ankle arthroscopy in Gurgaon.
Reviewed by Dr. Dheeraj Batheja
Senior Consultant - Ortho Spine Surgery
Artemis Hospitals
