Ankle arthroscopy is a keyhole procedure to diagnose and treat conditions within the ankle joint, including removal of loose bodies, treatment of impingement, cartilage repair, and joint assessment.
Two small incisions are made at the front of the ankle. A camera is inserted to view the joint. Procedures may include removal of bony spurs (anterior impingement), removal of loose bodies, debridement of damaged cartilage, or microfracture for cartilage defects. The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes.
Ankle arthroscopy is recommended for anterior ankle impingement (footballer's ankle), loose bodies, cartilage lesions (osteochondral defects), and diagnostic purposes when imaging is inconclusive.
Physiotherapy, ankle bracing, anti-inflammatory medication, and corticosteroid injection. For impingement, footwear modification may help.
Day-case procedure. Standard pre-assessment.
Removal of bony spurs or loose bodies provides rapid symptom relief. Treatment of cartilage defects can reduce pain and improve function. Success depends on the underlying condition.
Expected for one to two weeks.
Temporary ankle stiffness.
Sensory nerves at the front of the ankle may be damaged, causing numbness on the top of the foot.
Joint infection.
Symptoms may not fully resolve, particularly if arthritis is present.
General, spinal, or regional anaesthesia with an ankle block.
Most patients walk in a supportive shoe or boot within a few days. Return to desk work within one to two weeks. Return to sport at four to eight weeks. Physiotherapy helps restore movement and strength.
Wound check at two weeks. Surgeon review at six weeks.
Usually at six to eight weeks for anterior impingement surgery. Cartilage procedures may take longer.
Recurrence is possible over time but uncommon.