Surgical Procedures Related to the Ankle

This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a tiny camera is inserted into the ankle joint in order to diagnose conditions, such as fractures and osteoarthritis. In many instances, treatment is offered during the same appointment. Compared to x-rays, this procedure yields a great deal of useful information about underlying pathology of the ankle joint since the structures can be directly visualized.

In this procedure, degenerative tissue is removed from the ankle using a combination of injected fluid and a small vacuum. This is done using a tiny incision, in which an arthroscope is inserted into the joint to inspect the structures, wash the joint, and remove debris.

This condition occurs when bone spurs develop on the front (anterior) portions of the ankle bones, resulting in advanced arthritis or repeated ankle sprains. The bone spurs pinch together when the ankle is flexed back (dorsiflexed) and the joint capsule and the lining of joints become pinched, causing pain in the front of the ankle. Minimally invasive surgery removes the bone spurs in the front of the ankle, as well as any inflamed soft-tissue in the area.

This is a common, minimally invasive procedure used to treat ankles damaged by chronic, severe arthritis. During the procedure, the affected joint is manually straightened, damaged bone and cartilage tissue are removed, and the bones are fused together with surgical screws and grafted tissue. This alleviates the pain from arthritis and restores strength to the ankles in most patients.

Using minimally invasive arthroscopic incisions, surgeons can quickly take a tissue sample (biopsy) from inside the ankle. The sample is then examined under a microscope to diagnose disease and infection.