Ankle Arthroscopy in Singapore

What Is Ankle Arthroscopy?

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside or around the ankle joint. This technique can help to address various ankle conditions such as persistent ankle pain, ankle impingement, ligament tears, and cartilage injuries.

The procedure utilises the keyhole technique which involves small incisions. In this technique, a thin, fibre-optic camera (arthroscope) magnifies and transmits images of the inside of your ankle jointonto a video screen. This allows for precise diagnosis and treatment through tiny incisions, minimising pain, complication risks, and recovery time compared to traditional open ankle surgery.

Preparing for Ankle Arthroscopy

Proper preparation is essential for a smooth and successful ankle arthroscopy. Before the procedure, your surgeon may recommend you to:

• Stop Smoking – Avoiding smoking may reduce your risk of developing complications and will improve your long-term health.
• Limit Alcohol Intake – Alcohol consumption can thin your blood, increasing the risk of bleeding during and after surgery.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight – Being overweight can increase stress on the ankle joint, potentially worsening the condition.
• Exercise Regularly – It helps to strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankle joint, improve flexibility, and enhance overall physical fitness for a quicker recovery.
• Stop Taking Blood Thinners – Such medicines can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgery.
• Plan for Time Off – Recovery from ankle arthroscopy may require time off work. Discuss this with your employer beforehand to ensure a smooth return.

What Happens During Ankle Arthroscopy?

During an ankle arthroscopy, the patient’s ankle will be examined while they are under anaesthesia, making them asleep and unable to feel pain.

The orthopaedic surgeon will make a few small incisions (about 1 cm) on the front and/or back of the patient’s ankle joint, to insert an arthroscope and other surgical tools into the ankle. The arthroscope is connected to a video monitor in the operating room. This allows the surgeon to view the inside of the ankle and see what is causing the symptoms.

The surgeon will then perform any necessary treatment using the small, specialised instruments inserted into the ankle joint. Common procedures performed arthroscopically include the removal of bony spurs (osteophytes), inflamed tissue (synovitis), scar tissue (arthrofibrosis) or loose bodies (cartilage or bone).

At the end of the surgery, the ankle will be cleaned out, the incisions will be sutured closed, and a dressing (bandage) will be applied.

After an ankle arthroscopy, it is common to experience some discomfort, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle joint for a few weeks. These side effects can be managed through various measures, including:

• Keeping the ankle elevated
• Taking oral pain medication
• Keeping the bandage clean and dry
• Using a walker or crutches
• Wearing a splint or boot
• Avoiding putting weight or pressure on the ankle or foot
• Putting ice on the ankle
• Taking showers, not baths, until the incision heals

FAQs on Ankle Arthroscopy

• How long does an ankle arthroscopy procedure usually take?

  Most arthroscopies usually take 30 to 45 minutes to complete. However, the duration can vary depending on the issues being addressed and the complexity of the surgery.

• When can I resume normal activities after an ankle arthroscopy?

  Recovery from ankle arthroscopy varies depending on the procedure and the rate of one’s individual healing. Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks.

• Will there be scars after ankle arthroscopy?

  Yes, the surgery may leave some small scars around the incision sites where the arthroscope and surgical instruments were inserted. However, these scars are usually minimal and fade over time.

• Will I need physiotherapy after an ankle arthroscopy?

  Yes, physiotherapy is recommended for complete rehabilitation following an ankle arthroscopy. It helps reduce pain and improve strength, movement and function.