What is an ankle arthroscopy?
An ankle arthroscopy is the least invasive option for ankle surgery available today. This type of surgery can treat a variety of issues within the ankle, especially issues with soft tissue. The overall goal of ankle arthroscopy is twofold: First, to reduce or eliminate your pain, and second, to improve the way your ankle functions.
How does an ankle arthroscopy work?
Ankle arthroscopy is done while you're under local anesthesia, so you won't be in pain. A small incision, a fraction of the length of the incisions used in traditional ankle surgery, is created in the treatment area. Dr. Haber places an ultra-thin fiber optic camera into the incision. This camera then relays live images of the inside of the ankle to a nearby monitor so Dr. Haber can get a highly detailed view of the treatment area. This small incision also allows an access point for surgical tools during the procedure. Additional small incisions may also be made to allow for the best possible access to the damaged ankle. During the procedure, Dr. Haber can repair damage, remove tissue that can't be repaired, and shape cartilage, as needed.
What type of issues can an ankle arthroscopy help with?
An ankle arthroscopy is used in a variety of circumstances, including:
- Arthritis in the ankle, especially later-stage arthritis that's causing serious pain
- Ankle fractures
- Ligament problems within the ankle, especially in cases where ligaments are stretched out or very weak
- Anterior or posterior ankle impingement, a condition in which the bone or soft tissues around the ankle joint or in the back of the ankle are seriously inflamed
- Infections within the ankle in cases where antibiotic treatment hasn't been effective
- Removal of loose cartilage or bone
How long does it take to recover from an ankle arthroscopy?
The amount of recovery time needed can vary by patient, but most patients find ankle arthroscopy quite easy to recover from. Only a week or so off work is needed in most cases. As long as you follow Dr. Haber's discharge instructions and take care to avoid reinjury, you'll be back on your feet very quickly.
