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Ankle arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the orthopaedic surgeon to diagnose, treat, or repair problems within the ankle joint.

What Is ankle arthroscopy?

An arthroscope, a small thin telescope, is inserted into the ankle joint through tiny incisions (about 1 cm long). This procedure is often referred to as “keyhole surgery.”

The arthroscope contains a light system and lenses, which transmit images of the ankle to a video screen.

Specialist foot and ankle surgeons use these images to guide other specialised instruments introduced through additional small incisions.

Diagnostic arthroscopy: Used to investigate the cause of ankle symptoms by visualising inside the joint.

Therapeutic arthroscopy: Involves additional procedures performed alongside visualising inside the joint.

Fluid or tissue debris removal: Clearing out unwanted material.

Fragment removal or reattachment: Addressing loose bone fragments.

Scar tissue management: Breaking down or removing scar tissue.

Joint surface repair: Drilling or grafting defects in the joint surface.

Major procedures: For instance, fusing a worn-out ankle joint.

Most patients can go home the same day, but more extensive surgery may require a longer stay.

Office-type work usually resumes after 2 weeks, while physically strenuous jobs may require more time.

Risks: Although uncommon, complications can include sensitive or numb scars, bleeding, infection, blood clots, nerve or blood vessel injury, joint damage, or prolonged pain.

Remember, our dedicated consultants prioritise your care, ensuring you’re well-informed and supported throughout the process.

An individualised rehabilitation programme involving physiotherapy will be developed for you. A full return to sport will usually be expected after six weeks.

Some swelling in the ankle may be apparent after your surgery but this should settle down over the first few weeks.

If you have any questions or concerns, we're here to help.

You may be covered by private medical insurance, or you may wish to consider spreading the cost of your surgery by opting for a monthly payment plan.

We aim to make our costs as transparent as possible, but it’s important to talk everything through in detail with your consultant at the time of your appointment. Some costs may be paid directly to the hospital, while others, such as your consultant fees, may be paid directly to the consultant.

Treatment Overview

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  • Covered by health insurance? Yes

  • Can I pay privately? Yes

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