Ankle arthroscopy is a type of minimally invasive surgery that uses a small camera and tiny surgical tools to investigate and diagnose any problems inside the ankle joint. Also known as keyhole surgery, this procedure uses a surgical instrument called an arthroscope to examine the inside of the ankle joint. This flexible tube has a camera at one end which projects a large image onto a nearby screen. The specialist can use this information to assess the condition of the ankle, before diagnosing any problems.

Ankle arthroscopy is used for many ankle conditions such as ankle fracture repair, arthritis, ligament damage, impingement and cartilage repair. Many common ankle conditions can also be treated in the same surgery by making further small incisions and using some specialist surgical repair tools. As a less invasive procedure, ankle arthroscopy has many benefits that include: less pain, faster healing time, less scarring and a shorter time in hospital.

General recovery times

Ankle arthroscopy is usually completed as day surgery, and you will be allowed to return home the same day. The small cuts will heal quickly, but your overall recovery time from ankle arthroscopy will depend on the extent of the surgery that took place. In more mild cases, you may be able to walk on your ankle soon after surgery.

In more severe cases where there has been extensive repair, it may take a few months before you can bear weight. Keeping your foot elevated will help reduce the post-surgical swelling and relieve pain. Some patients will have to wear a splint or a boot to stabilise the joint while the ankle heals. Patients will be provided with an individualised exercise program on discharge to help restore strength and improve range of motion as the ankle heals. Talk to your doctor about returning to work and driving.

Familiarising yourself with your treatment program and understanding the recovery process are important steps to take on the pathway to surgery.

Patient journey - Ankle Surgery