Ankle arthroscopy

By Gladys de Leon, DPM, and Hayley Iosue, DPM, AAFACS Foot & Ankle Specialists of Ohio

We perform a minimally invasive surgical procedure known as an ankle arthroscopy.

Using a tiny fiber-optic camera, we go in through miniscule incisions and examine the ankle’s tissues and structures. An eagle-eye view also allows us to repair tissue and clean out small fragments of arthritic bone, cartilage and bone spurs. These fragments can cause pain or limited motion in the ankle.

In cases of severe ankle sprains, cartilage can be visualized and repaired, and we can use the arthroscopy in conjunction with an ancillary procedure on the outside of the ankle to help with stability.

Since the outpatient surgery is less invasive, patients can expect to be walking in a boot within a week or two.

We encourage physical therapy as soon as the small incisions are healed to minimize scarring and increase range of motion. If there are ancillary procedures done, such as a lateral ankle ligament repair, there may need to be additional restrictions of immobilization and non-weight bearing movement.

Like many diagnostic procedures, arthroscopy has evolved over the years. There are new scopes that have been developed that are smaller, easier to manipulate and provide excellent visualization with state-of-the-art cameras and monitors in the operating room setting. Smaller cameras and instrumentation cause less disruption of the tissues and ease repair of damaged or injured structures.

Foot & Ankle Specialists of Ohio is located at 325 Center Street in Chardon. Same-day and next-day appointments are available. Request an appointment online or by calling 440-306-5359. The website is FasOhio.com.