Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a number of ankle conditions including impingement, arthritis, and instability. Ankle arthroscopy consists of an arthroscope being introduced into the ankle in order to address the pathology. At Preuss Podiatry, our board-certified foot and ankle surgeons perform ankle arthroscopy for patients in Louisville, KY and Floyds Knobs, IN.
What is an ankle scope?
An arthroscope is a thin tube with a tiny camera on the end. The surgeon places it into the ankle through small incisions and watches a screen to see inside the joint. Small instruments go in through a second small incision to treat the problem. Because the ankle is not fully opened, an ankle scope usually means less pain, less scarring and a quicker recovery than open surgery.
Conditions treated with ankle arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy can treat:
- Ankle impingement, when bone spurs or scar tissue pinch the front or back of the ankle
- Early ankle arthritis and loose pieces of bone or cartilage in the joint
- Cartilage damage, often from an old ankle sprain or fracture
- Ankle instability, sometimes together with ligament repair
- Ongoing ankle pain and swelling when the cause is not clear on imaging
Signs you may need an ankle scope
Many patients we see have ankle pain that has lasted months, often after a sprain that never fully healed. Signs include pain in the front or back of the ankle, swelling after activity, a catching or locking feeling, and an ankle that feels weak or gives way.
Most ankle problems are treated first with bracing, physical therapy, anti-inflammatories or injections. Ankle arthroscopy is considered when these do not give lasting relief.
Ankle scope procedures at Preuss Podiatry
At Preuss Podiatry, the physicians specialize in performing ankle scope procedures.
Before surgery, your surgeon will examine your ankle, review x-rays or an MRI, and explain what the scope can and cannot fix. Ankle arthroscopy is usually an outpatient procedure, so most patients go home the same day.
Recovery after ankle arthroscopy
Recovery depends on what is treated during the scope. Many patients use a boot or crutches for a short time, then start physical therapy to rebuild motion and strength. Your surgeon will give you a timeline for returning to work, walking and sports.
Schedule an appointment
If you are someone suffering from ankle pain, please call and schedule an appointment at one of the three Louisville, KY locations or the Floyds Knobs, IN location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ankle arthroscopy major surgery?
It is a real surgery, but it is minimally invasive, done through small incisions, and usually done as an outpatient procedure.
Will I need physical therapy?
Most patients do. Physical therapy helps restore motion, strength and balance after surgery.
Can an ankle scope fix arthritis?
It can help early arthritis by removing bone spurs and loose pieces. Advanced arthritis may need other treatment. See our Arthritis & Joint Pain page.
