Ankle Arthoscopy

Injury to the cartilage within the ankle joint is commonly associated with sporting injury and ankle sprains. Unstable cartilage flaps (commonly called osteochondral lesions) may cause pain, swelling and impair sport and recreation. Ankle arthroscopy is used to assess the joint surface and remove unstable areas of cartilage/ bone. Various methods have been used to stimulate growth of new cartilage. Most commonly a microfracture procedure is utilised for small/ medium lesions.

Bone spur formation on the front part of the ankle is common in running athletes. This results in pain and restricted range of motion with movement of the ankle. These spurs can be removed with arthroscopic surgery if you fail to respond to activity modification and physiotherapy.

• You may use the leg freely, however crutches may be required. Crutches are available through the Registered Nurse on the ward.
• You may leave hospital when you are fully awake and can choose to stay overnight if you prefer.
• The dressing on your ankle should remain in place for approximately 5 days. If the dressing becomes moist then it should be changed. A waterproof dressing should be used for showering and you should not soak in the bath, pool or at the beach.
• No specific exercises are required in the immediate post operative process phase. Your surgeon will advise your weight bearing status
• No physiotherapy is required for the first 3 or 4 weeks. If it becomes necessary it will be ordered for you when you visit the rooms post operatively.
• If you do not have an appointment for review in the rooms within 10 days after your surgery please phone the rooms to arrange this.

• Nerve / blood vessel injury
• Ongoing pain / stiffness
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clots – DVT / PE
• Failure of cartilage repair