Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle Arthroscopy Meaning

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows an orthopedic surgeon to visualize and repair problems within the ankle joint. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the skin and a thin tube called an arthroscope is inserted into the ankle joint. The arthroscope has a light and a camera attached to it, which allows the surgeon to see inside the joint on a video screen. 

It is a common procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of ankle conditions, including:

• Ligament tears: Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones together. An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when one or more of these ligaments is torn. Ankle arthroscopy can be used to repair torn ligaments.

• Impingement: Impingement occurs when the bones in the ankle joint rub together, causing pain and inflammation. Ankle arthroscopy can be used to remove bone spurs or other tissue that is causing impingement.

• Cartilage injuries: Cartilage is the smooth, cushiony tissue that covers the ends of bones in the ankle joint. Cartilage injuries can cause pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Ankle arthroscopy can be used to repair or remove damaged cartilage. 

• Osteochondral defects: Osteochondral defects are small pieces of bone and cartilage that break off from the talus, the bone that forms the ankle joint. These defects can cause pain, instability, and arthritis. Ankle arthroscopy can be used to remove loose fragments and repair damaged cartilage. 

• Synovitis: Synovitis is an inflammation of the synovial membrane, the lining of the ankle joint. Synovitis can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. Ankle arthroscopy can be used to remove inflamed tissue and inject medication into the joint. 

• Infections: Ankle arthroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat infections in the ankle joint.

• Undiagnosed ankle pain: Ankle arthroscopy can be used to diagnose the cause of ankle pain that has not been diagnosed by other means.

Ankle arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat a variety of ankle conditions, including:

• Ankle pain

• Ligament tears

• Ankle impingement

• Scar tissue

• Arthritis

• Cartilage injuries

• Loose fragments

There are 4 types of Ankle Surgery that include:-

1. Ankle replacement

   Ankle replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged cartilage and bone in the ankle joint with artificial components. It is a major surgery that is typically reserved for people who have severe arthritis of the ankle that has not responded to other treatments.

2. Ankle fracture repair surgery

   Ankle fracture repair surgery is a surgical procedure that is used to repair broken bones in the ankle. The type of surgery that is used will depend on the location and severity of the fracture. Some common types of ankle fracture repair surgery include:

   • Closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF): This procedure is used to realign the bones in the ankle and then hold them in place with screws, pins, or plates.

   • Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): This procedure is similar to CRIF, but it requires an incision to be made in order to access the broken bones.

   • External fixation: This procedure is used to realign the bones in the ankle and then hold them in place with an external frame that is attached to the skin.

3. Ankle fusion

   Ankle fusion is a surgical procedure that fuses the bones of the ankle joint together. This procedure is typically used for people who have severe arthritis of the ankle that has not responded to other treatments. Ankle fusion can help to relieve pain and improve stability, but it will also eliminate the range of motion in the ankle joint.

4. Lateral ankle ligament reconstruction

   Lateral ankle ligament reconstruction is a surgical procedure that is used to tighten and firm up one or more ankle ligaments on the outside of the ankle. It is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed on people who have chronic ankle instability.

The steps involved in ankle arthroscopy are typically as follows:

1. Preparation: The patient will be prepared for surgery by removing any jewelry or clothing from the area around the ankle. The ankle will be shaved and cleaned, and an intravenous (IV) line will be inserted into the arm to administer anesthesia and fluids.

2. Anesthesia: The patient will be given general anesthesia or local anesthesia to numb the area around the ankle.

3. Incisions: The surgeon will make two or three small incisions (typically less than half an inch long) in the skin around the ankle.

4. Inserting the arthroscope: The surgeon will insert the arthroscope, a thin tube with a light and camera, into one of the incisions.

5. Viewing the ankle joint: The surgeon will use the arthroscope to view the inside of the ankle joint on a video monitor.

6. Repairing any damage: The surgeon will use small surgical instruments inserted through the other incisions to repair any damage to the ankle joint. This may involve removing loose fragments of bone or cartilage, repairing torn ligaments, or trimming the inflamed lining of the joint.

7. Closing the incisions: Once the repair is complete, the surgeon will remove the arthroscope and surgical instruments. The incisions will be closed with sutures or staples.

Side Effects of Ankle Arthroscopy

While ankle arthroscopy is a relatively safe procedure, there are some risks associated with it. These risks can be divided into two categories: general risks and procedure-specific risks.

General risks

These are the risks that are associated with any type of surgery. They include:

• Infection: Infection is a risk of any surgery, and ankle arthroscopy is no exception. The risk of infection is increased if you have a weakened immune system or if you smoke.

• Allergic reaction to anesthesia: Some people are allergic to anesthesia, and this can lead to a serious reaction.

• Blood clots: Blood clots can form in the legs after surgery, and they can travel to the lungs and cause a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.

Procedure-specific risks

These are the risks that are specific to ankle arthroscopy. They include:

• Nerve damage: The nerves in the ankle are very close to the surface of the skin, and there is a risk of damaging them during ankle arthroscopy. Nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the ankle and foot.

• Stiffness: Ankle arthroscopy can cause stiffness in the ankle joint. This is usually temporary and can be relieved with physical therapy.

• Recurrence of the problem: In some cases, the problem that was treated with ankle arthroscopy can come back. This is more likely to happen if the patient does not follow the doctor's instructions for rehabilitation.

Other potential risks

• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the procedure may require a blood transfusion.

• Instrument breakage: In rare cases, the surgical instruments used during ankle arthroscopy may break and become lodged in the joint. This may require additional surgery to remove the fragments.

• Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD): This is a painful condition that can occur after surgery. It is characterized by intense pain, burning, and swelling in the affected area.

It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of ankle arthroscopy with your doctor before deciding if it is right for you.

Benefits of Ankle Arthroscopy 

Ankle arthroscopy can have several benefits, including: 

• Quicker healing

• Reduced risk of infection

• Less time in hospital

• Quicker rehabilitation

• Less pain after the arthroscopy

• Preservation of the inherent stability of the ankle

• Fewer complications

• Smaller incisions

• Minimal soft tissue trauma

Here are some additional benefits of ankle arthroscopy:

• Visualization

• Precision

• Reduced scarring

• Faster return to activities

• Improved quality of life

The recovery time for ankle arthroscopy typically varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual's healing capacity. However, the general recovery timeline can be summarized as follows:

1. Immediate Post-Operative Phase (Days 1-3): During this period, the focus is on managing pain, and swelling, and reducing the risk of infection. Patients may experience discomfort, bruising, and restricted ankle movement. Ice packs and elevation of the ankle are recommended to control swelling. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort.

2. Early Recovery Phase (Week 1-4): As the initial inflammation subsides, patients may start gentle range-of-motion exercises to gradually regain ankle mobility. Crutches or a walker may be necessary for support during this phase. Physical therapy may be initiated to guide patients through proper rehabilitation exercises.

3. Intermediate Recovery Phase (Week 4-8): Patients typically experience significant improvement in ankle movement and pain reduction during this phase. Weight-bearing activities may be gradually introduced, and crutches or walkers may no longer be required. Physical therapy continues to focus on strengthening the ankle muscles and restoring normal function.

4. Late Recovery Phase (Week 8-12): By this time, most patients have regained a significant range of motion and can resume most of their daily activities. Physical therapy may focus on specific sports-related or work-related movements to ensure complete recovery.

5. Return to Full Activity (Beyond Week 12): The time to return to full activity, including sports or high-impact activities, typically varies depending on the individual's healing and the severity of the initial injury. A gradual progression back to pre-injury activities is recommended under the guidance of a physical therapist or doctor.

Here are some tips for a faster ankle arthroscopy recovery:

• Follow your doctor's instructions carefully

• Start physical therapy as soon as possible

• Rest when you feel tired. Don't try to do too much too soon.

• Eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep. This will help your body heal properly.

• Avoid activities that put stress on your ankle, such as running or jumping.

• Wear supportive shoes with good arch support.

If you have any concerns about your recovery, please be sure to contact your doctor.

Ankle arthroscopy in Delhi can cost between ₹1,00,000 and ₹1,40,000. The average cost is ₹1,22,500. The actual cost may vary depending on the type and number of procedures performed. 

Ankle Arthroscopy Cost Overview

Starting Cost - ₹45000

Average Price - ₹122500

Maximum Charges - ₹200000

The cost of ankle arthroscopy in Delhi can vary depending on the severity of the condition, the type of procedure performed, the hospital or clinic, and the surgeon's experience.

On average, ankle arthroscopy in Delhi costs between Rs. 80,000 and Rs. 1,50,000, including the cost of the procedure itself, hospitalization, anesthesia, and post-operative care.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated cost of ankle arthroscopy in Delhi:

• Procedure: Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1,00,000

• Hospitalization: Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000

• Anesthesia: Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000

• Post-operative care: Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000

If you have health insurance, some of the costs may be covered. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm what is covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be.

Here are some factors that can affect the cost of ankle arthroscopy in Delhi:

• The severity of the condition: More complex cases may require more extensive surgery, which will cost more.

• The type of procedure performed: There are different types of ankle arthroscopy procedures, and some are more complex than others.

• The hospital or clinic: The cost of ankle arthroscopy will vary depending on the hospital or clinic you choose. Some hospitals and clinics are more expensive than others.

• The surgeon's experience: A more experienced surgeon may charge more than a less experienced surgeon.