🦵 Ankle Arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the ankle joint. A small camera called an arthroscope is inserted through tiny incisions, allowing the surgeon to see inside the joint on a screen and use special instruments to repair or clean damaged tissue.

🔍 Why It’s Done (Indications)
Ankle arthroscopy may be recommended for:
. Chronic ankle pain not improving with other treatments.
. Loose bodies (small pieces of bone/cartilage floating in the joint).
. Ankle impingement (pinching of soft tissues causing pain and stiffness).
. Cartilage injuries or early arthritis.
. Ankle instability (from repeated sprains).
. Infection in the joint (septic arthritis).
. Fracture management (to check and clean joint after injury).

🩺 Procedure
1. Anesthesia – spinal, general, or regional block.
2.Small incisions made around the ankle.

Arthroscope inserted (tiny camera + light).

Saline fluid is pumped into the joint to expand space.

Special instruments used to:

Remove loose fragments.

Repair torn cartilage/ligaments.

Smooth out bone spurs.

Treat inflamed tissue.

Incisions closed with stitches or strips.

✅ Benefits

Smaller incisions → less pain, faster healing.

Less risk of infection compared to open surgery.

Shorter hospital stay (often outpatient).

Faster return to work/sports.

⚠️ Risks & Complications

Although rare, possible risks include:

Infection.

Nerve or blood vessel injury.

Stiffness or swelling.

Blood clots.

Persistent pain if underlying problem is severe.

🏃 Recovery

Usually same-day discharge.

Crutches may be needed for a few days.

Gradual weight-bearing depending on the surgery done.

Physical therapy starts early to regain motion and strength.

Return to normal activities in 2–6 weeks (minor cases) or 3–6 months (if major repair done).