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Arthroscopic Ankle Surgery

Using a fibreoptic viewing arthroscope, a number of ankle conditions can be treated. The ankle is a smaller joint that the knee, and therefore is more dificult to work in. However, with adequate experience, arthroscopic ankle surgery has become a routine procedure.

The conditions usually treated arthroscopically are the removal of bone spurs and loose bodies, smoothing of joint surface defects and cleansing worn joint surfaces prior to screw fusion (arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis).

Following Ankle Arthroscopy

Activity

Plan to rest up for the first 48 hours. From the start, regularly move the ankle through a range of movement. You can walk on your ankle as soon as it is comfortable to do so, otherwise you may need to use crutches.

Pain

The ankle has had a long acting local anaesthetic solution (Marcain) put into it at surgery. Use ice packs about the ankle (ice cubes in a plastic bag, wrapped in a tea towel) over the first 24-48 hours. If the ankle is becoming uncomfortable, check the bandage is not too tight (and loosen it off if it is) and rest the foot up. Take two paracetamol tablets four hourly, over the first 48 hours. You may also take an anti-inflammatory drug if you wish. If the ankle gets very painful, please contact us.

Bandage

You can take the bandage off at 3-4 days. The skin puncture wounds should be sealed by then, and you can then shower. If there is any leakage, cover the wound with a band-aid.

Work

If you have a sedentary or non-physical job, you may return to work at 4-5 days. Otherwise, physical work should be possible within 10 days.

Follow-up

Please phone our 101 Remuera Road clinic the day after your operation, to make an appointment for 7-10 days following surgery.