Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that precisely diagnoses and treats many causes of ankle pain. An arthroscope is a small camera, about half the width of a pen, that when inserted into the ankle permits a complete view of the cartilage and joint surfaces. Pain and the rehabilitation needs are minimized using this technique. If you have questions about ankle arthroscopy surgery, contact Atlanta foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Lance Silverman today!
Are you suffering from significant ankle pain as a result of a previous injury?
If so, let Dr. Silverman help.
For more information about the ankle arthroscopy procedure, keep reading.
What Happens Before Ankle Arthroscopy?
The surgical center will provide you with individualized advice in the days and weeks leading up to your operation. On the day of your surgery, the anesthesiologist will give you a regional anesthesia known as a Popliteal nerve block. You will be given medication to induce “twilight sleep,” placed on your stomach, and a small needle will be used to inject Novocain-like medication around the nerve in the back of your leg. It gives complete pain relief that lasts for 12 to 36 hours. Patients report extraordinary satisfaction with this type of anesthesia.
What Happens During Ankle Arthroscopy?
During the ankle arthroscopy you will undergo heavy sedation. A tourniquet will be inflated around your calf, and you will not feel the pressure because of the nerve block. Two small incisions (less than ¼ inch) are made on the front of the ankle. Occasionally a posterior incision is made as well. A small camera inserted into the ankle through the first portal permits a complete view of the ankle joint and a precise diagnosis. A variety of devices are inserted through the other portal to treat the problem. When the procedure is complete, the wounds are closed with stitches and the leg is placed into a cast or a removable cast boot.
What Happens After Ankle Arthroscopy?
You will be permitted to leave the surgical center once your anesthesiologist is satisfied that you have recovered. During this recovery time your family member may take your prescription to the nearest pharmacy. You will be given crutches. Take your narcotic pain control medications before falling asleep or as you feel the “numbing” effect wearing off. Remember, post operative pain is much easier to control with prevention. Call to schedule your first post-operative visit for 7-10 days after surgery when you are able.
Ankle Arthroscopy General Recovery Timeline
This timeline is a general guideline. Your post-operative course may vary.
| Elevation | 23 hours / day for 3 days; then keep elevated as needed. Swelling may last over 4 months. |
| Motion | Move your ankle and lesser toes when the block resolves. This will decrease pain and swelling, and improve healing. |
| Walking | Depends on the procedure but, generally full weight bearing is permitted. |
| Bathing | After 3 days you may shower but do not let the skin by the incision become macerated. |
| Pain Control | Expect to use strong narcotics for the first 3-5 days. Wean off as soon as you are comfortable using Tylenol. |
| Work | Return depends on specific demands. It is safe to return to sedentary work at 5 days post-op. Return to heavy labor may take 4 weeks or more depending on other simultaneously performed procedures. |
| Driving | Patients with left foot surgery may drive an automatic transmission. Patients with right foot surgery must wait until healing is adequate and they feel safe. |
Routine Clinic Visits
| 2 weeks | Confirm incision is healed, begin physical therapy if instructed. |
| 4 weeks | Gradually resume normal activity. |
| 3 – 4 months | Return if you have pain, other concerns, or per Dr. Silverman’s instructions. Minimal feelings of discomfort may linger, your overall comfort level improves over a year. |
| ********** | If at any time during your post-operative period you notice any drainage or foul odor from your incision, a temperature of more than 100.4 degrees and/or increased swelling or tenderness, you should contact our office. |
For more helpful tips, check out these rehab exercise videos that will help you recover, or reach out to Dr. Silverman for more information!