Arthroscopy of the Foot & Ankle
Technology and unique instrumentation
have led to the development of surgical
techniques for the diagnosis and repair
of joint disorders.
Knee arthroscopy was developed in the late 1960’s. Small joint
arthroscopy was developed in the early 1980’s by orthopedic
and podiatric foot and ankle surgeons and adapted to foot and
ankle joints. Your podiatric foot and ankle surgeon may identify
a potential problem with a foot or ankle joint after examining the
lower extremity. Arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to
confirm a diagnosis or perform a surgical procedure within a joint
using an arthroscopic instrument. For example, needle-like probes
enter the joint through a small opening of the skin. The podiatric
foot and ankle surgeon introduces a tiny camera to inspect the
joint. The podiatric foot and ankle surgeon may also insert
surgical instruments through another small incision to perform
additional procedures within the joint.
Unlike traditional joint surgery that requires large incisions to
expose the joint, arthroscopy uses small openings to examine
the joint. By eliminating the need for large incisions, arthroscopy
reduces the risk of infection and swelling. Podiatric foot and
ankle surgeons may perform arthroscopic surgery in hospitals,
outpatient surgery centers and in their offices. Arthroscopy
is often a “same day” procedure allowing the patient to return
home after surgery. Your podiatric foot and ankle surgeon will
discuss all aspects of surgery with you.
Instrumentation
Podiatric foot and ankle surgeons use delicate instruments and
miniature video cameras to perform arthroscopic surgery. These
instruments include cutting tools, burrs, graspers, shavers, fastening
tools, sutures, laser and electrocautery to control bleeding.
arthroscopic surgery
Arthoscopic techniques allow for a variety of procedures that are
performed on foot and ankle joints. The following table reflects
conditions for which the arthoscope can be used to diagnose
and perform reconstructive procedures.
| Condition |
Arthroscopic Treatment |
| Chronic ankle pain |
diagnosis, biopsy |
| Arthritis |
biopsy, arthroplasty, fusion |
| Loose bodies |
excision |
Ankle instability
(the feeling of giving way) |
ligament repair |
Cartilage fractures
Cartilage fractures |
repair or removal |
| Meniscoid body (scar tissue) |
excision, biopsy |
Advantages
Advantages of arthroscopic surgery include reduced trauma due to
the small instruments used. Small instruments cause less damage
to surrounding skin, ligaments, tendons and bony structures.
Movement of the joint reduces swelling, stiffness and postoperative
discomfort. Your podiatric foot and ankle surgeon may recommend
exercising the joint to hasten your recovery to bathing, walking,
and sports activity.
Postoperative care
Your podiatric foot and ankle surgeon may recommend rest,
ice, compression and elevation (“RICE”) to help speed healing.
Rest - Ask your podiatric foot and ankle surgeon how long you
should rest or restrict activity.
Ice - Ice reduces swelling, bleeding and pain following surgery.
Compression - Dressings help reduce swelling and stabilize the joint, preventing
unnecessary motion. Dressings should be snug but should not
interfere with proper circulation.
Elevation
- Keep the foot at or above the level of your heart to drain excess fluids
away from your foot. This helps to reduce swelling and discomfort.
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