Arthroscopy of the ankle joint

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique. The treatment takes place under the control of a camera and a very small lens that allows you to observe the inside of the pond. The procedure is performed as part of one-day surgery. Instead of a large wound, several centimeters long, it is carried out through two, 5-8 mm incisions. This promotes faster recovery of the patient and reduces the risk of perioperative infection.

The doctor who will perform this procedure qualifies the patient for arthroscopic surgery. In addition to the clinical examination, the attending physician requires a diagnostic ultrasound of the joint or MRI. It is often necessary to perform an X-ray of the joint. After consultation and agreeing with the patient the type and indications for surgery, the date of the operation is set.

For the first few days, the patient receives painkillers. In order to avoid the risk of an increase in postoperative hematoma, it is recommended to limit physical activity to the minimum necessary in the first days after surgery.

After a correctly performed arthroscopy, the patient should move with a crutch for about 2-3 weeks. Usually, however, full load on the operated leg is possible already a week after the surgery, when the sutures closing the postoperative wound are removed. The time it takes for the patient to reach full fitness depends largely on the size of the damage and the extent of the operation itself. Usually the rehabilitation process does not last longer than 6 weeks.

Joint swelling may occur in the postoperative period. Subcutaneous hematomas may appear. In order to reduce swelling, you should restrict walking and keep the leg elevated. Pain is usually controlled with prescribed medications. A control visit takes place at the appointed time, but in the event of redness, leakage from wounds, fever, increased pain and swelling, contact a doctor.