What is it?
In an ankle arthroscopy, a small camera and fine instruments are passed into the ankle through two or three small incisions. It lets the surgeon see inside the joint and treat many problems, such as trimming bone spurs or scar tissue that pinch the joint, treating areas of damaged cartilage and removing loose fragments. Problems at the back of the ankle can be treated with a similar keyhole technique from behind.
Who might it help?
- Ankle impingement: pain at the front or back of the ankle from bone spurs or scar tissue
- Cartilage injuries of the ankle bone (talus)
- Loose fragments of bone or cartilage in the joint
- Assessing the ligaments and joint before or alongside a stabilising operation
Is it right for you?
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Surgery is only recommended when it is likely to help, and non-surgical options are always discussed first.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the benefits, risks and alternatives for your situation at your consultation.
What does it involve?
- It's usually a day-case operation under a general anaesthetic.
- The small incisions are closed with stitches or strips.
Before your operation
- You'll have a pre-assessment check, usually a week or two before surgery, including blood tests if needed
- Stop smoking, ideally at least six weeks before, as it slows bone and wound healing
- Arrange help at home for the first couple of weeks, and someone to take you home
- Prepare your home: clear walkways, and put everyday things within easy reach
- If you'll use crutches or a knee scooter, practise beforehand
On the day
- You'll be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours beforehand
- The anaesthetist will discuss the anaesthetic with you, often a general anaesthetic with a nerve block to keep the foot numb for several hours afterwards
- Mr Jeyaseelan will see you before the operation to answer any questions and mark the leg
- Before you go home, you'll be shown how to use crutches and given pain relief and written instructions
Recovery
Recovery depends on what is done. After treatment of impingement, most people walk as comfort allows within days, with physiotherapy to restore movement. After cartilage treatment, you may need to protect the ankle and limit weight bearing for several weeks.
Foot raised for the first few days, then walking as comfort allows, unless cartilage treatment means limited weight bearing. Stitches out at about two weeks.
Physiotherapy to restore movement and strength.
Gradual return to running and sport, depending on what was treated.
Full recovery, particularly after cartilage treatment.
These times are typical only. You'll be given a personal recovery plan.
Getting back to normal
- Driving
- You can usually drive once you're out of a boot and can do an emergency stop safely. After right-foot surgery this is often six to eight weeks or more. Check with your insurer.
- Work
- Desk-based work is often possible after two to six weeks if you can keep the foot raised. Jobs that involve standing or walking take longer.
- Sport
- Low-impact exercise, such as cycling and swimming, usually comes first. Running and contact sport come later, once strength and movement have returned.
- Flying
- Long-haul flights are usually avoided for at least six weeks after foot and ankle surgery because of the risk of blood clots. Ask before booking travel.
Possible risks
As with any operation, there are risks. They include:
- Numbness or tingling from irritation of a small skin nerve
- Infection or a leaking wound
- Blood clots in the leg or lungs
- Stiffness or ongoing symptoms
Alternatives
Many ankle problems improve with physiotherapy, activity changes, insoles or injections, and these are usually tried first.
Conditions this may treat
Common questions
Where can I have ankle arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with problems that may need ankle arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment. If surgery is right for you, he will discuss which hospital suits you best.
How long is recovery after ankle arthroscopy (keyhole surgery)?
Recovery depends on what is done. After treatment of impingement, most people walk as comfort allows within days, with physiotherapy to restore movement. After cartilage treatment, you may need to protect the ankle and limit weight bearing for several weeks. Your own recovery plan will be tailored to you.
Is it covered by health insurance?
Mr Jeyaseelan is recognised by major insurers including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality and WPA. Cover depends on your policy, so please get an authorisation code from your insurer before your appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.