Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions affecting the ankle joint. During an ankle arthroscopy, an orthopedic surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the ankle joint through a tiny incision. The camera projects images of the inside of the joint onto a monitor so the surgeon can see what’s going on. The surgeon can then use specialized instruments inserted through other small incisions in order to repair or remove damaged joint tissue.
When conventional treatments have failed to alleviate pain, stiffness, swelling, and joint locking resulting from ankle conditions such as torn cartilage (meniscus), ankle arthroscopy may be the recommended solution. Through diagnosis of these issues combined with a possible debridement procedure which eliminates rough spots on bones caused by arthritis, this minimally invasive surgery provides an excellent opportunity for individuals needing relief.
Ankle arthroscopy offers many benefits over open surgery, such as smaller incisions with less noticeable scarring and decreased risk of damage to surrounding structures. It also allows for a shorter recovery period, plus minimal blood loss and a lower risk of infection or complications – enabling you to get back into your everyday routine faster than before. While your medical history and condition ultimately determine the choice between traditional open surgery or ankle arthroscopy, it’s always beneficial to weigh all options carefully alongside an experienced doctor’s advice.