Our Summary

This research paper discusses ankle arthroscopy, a surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat ankle conditions. This procedure was first tried on dead bodies by Dr. Burman in 1931, and first successfully done on living patients by Dr. Takagi in 1939. There are two main ways to perform this surgery: from the front of the ankle (anterior) or from the back of the ankle (posterior). The reasons to use ankle arthroscopy have grown over time as doctors have gained more experience treating different ankle issues and as the results of the surgery have been reported. Over the years, there have been significant improvements in this type of surgery, which now allows for fewer complications and quicker recovery times. The authors expect that the use of ankle arthroscopy will continue to grow as new medical devices are developed to improve the procedure, leading to better outcomes for patients in the future.

FAQs

  1. What is ankle arthroscopy and who first performed it?
  2. What are the two general approaches to ankle arthroscopy?
  3. How has ankle arthroscopic surgery evolved over the years and what are its future prospects?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about arthroscopy is to follow all pre-operative instructions carefully, such as fasting before the procedure and avoiding certain medications. It is also important to follow post-operative care instructions, such as keeping the surgical site clean and dry, taking prescribed medications as directed, and attending follow-up appointments. Additionally, it is important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your doctor promptly. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful recovery and optimal outcomes from their arthroscopic procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for ankle arthroscopy include those with persistent ankle pain, swelling, instability, and limited range of motion that have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy or medications. Common pathologic entities that may be addressed through ankle arthroscopy include anterior impingement syndrome, osteochondral lesions, ligament injuries, loose bodies, synovitis, and arthritis. Additionally, ankle arthroscopy may be recommended for patients who have had a previous ankle injury or surgery that has resulted in scar tissue formation or ongoing symptoms. Overall, ankle arthroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating a variety of ankle conditions, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.

Timeline

Before arthroscopy:

  1. Patient experiences pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected joint.
  2. Patient undergoes physical examination and diagnostic imaging tests to determine the extent of the joint damage.
  3. Orthopedic surgeon recommends arthroscopy as a minimally invasive surgical option to diagnose and treat the joint condition.

After arthroscopy:

  1. Patient undergoes arthroscopic surgery, where a small camera and surgical tools are inserted into the joint through small incisions.
  2. Surgeon performs necessary repairs or procedures to address the joint pathology.
  3. Patient is monitored postoperatively for pain management and to ensure proper healing.
  4. Patient undergoes physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the joint.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and sports, with a quicker return to work and play compared to traditional open surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific reason for recommending arthroscopy as a treatment option for my ankle condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with ankle arthroscopy?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after arthroscopy?
  4. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the arthroscopic procedure?
  5. How many ankle arthroscopies have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before deciding on ankle arthroscopy?
  7. What are the long-term outcomes and prognosis for my condition following ankle arthroscopy?
  8. How should I prepare for the arthroscopic procedure, including any pre-operative instructions or restrictions?
  9. Will I need assistance at home during the recovery period, and if so, for how long?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or modifications I should make following ankle arthroscopy to support optimal healing and recovery?

Reference

Authors: Shimozono Y, Seow D, Kennedy JG, Stone JW. Journal: Sports Med Arthrosc Rev. 2018 Dec;26(4):190-195. doi: 10.1097/JSA.0000000000000222. PMID: 30395066