Ankle Arthroscopy

Minimally Invasive Ankle Arthritis Surgery

Many patients who live with ankle arthritis can greatly benefit from ankle arthroscopy. Over time, cartilage loss as a result of arthritis leads to a buildup of debris in the ankle joint, causing pain and difficulty moving the joint. Arthroscopic ankle surgery addresses these issues by removing loose bone and cartilage, scar tissue, bone spurs, and damaged cartilage regions through micro sized incision and the use of a camera and precise instruments to address the joint problems. The procedure is relatively simple, but can produce great results in the right candidate. And because it is performed using minimally invasive techniques arthroscopically, there is less inflammation and a faster recovery times than with open surgery.

Ankle Arthroscopy is used to remove damaged cartilage from the ankle joint. Ankle Arthroscopy is used to remove damaged cartilage from the ankle joint.

The Ankle Arthroscopy Procedure

At the Ankle Arthritis Institute, we perform ankle arthroscopy in one of our state-of-the-art surgical suites. The procedure is usually performed under sedation and local anesthesia which allows the patient to be comfortable without the need for general anesthesia. Our board-certified ankle surgeons then make two to three small incisions (about one centimeter wide) around the ankle. Using a small camera and special instruments, they are able to remove the offending tissues, alleviating your ankle pain and restoring range of motion in the joint. The small incisions result in reduced inflammation and a faster recovery time, meaning you can be back on your feet and return to activity sooner.

Ankle Arthroscopy and Stem Cell Therapy

In some cases, stem cell injections are administered as part of the ankle arthroscopy procedure. Stem cell therapy has been shown to accelerate the body's own natural healing ability. In this case, the stem cells can help the damaged region regenerate faster and in better fashion. Derived from the body's own tissues, stem cells have the ability to become any type of cell. These can be combined with platelet rich plasma, another novel treatment derived from the body's own tissues. The Ankle Arthritis Institute has been at the forefront of stem cell research for use in ankle surgery, and the results have been very encouraging.

Recovery After Ankle Arthroscopy

Because of the minimally invasive nature of arthroscopic surgery – and the healing acceleration provided by stem cell therapy and platelet rich plasma – recovery after ankle arthroscopy is usually relatively rapid. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day. You will need to keep weight off your ankle as it recovers, although in many cases you can stop using crutches after a few days.

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The Best Foot and Ankle Surgeons in Southern California

The Ankle Arthritis Institute has some of the best foot and ankle surgeons in Southern California. They have pioneered some of the most advanced ankle treatments in use today, including the use of stem cell therapy and platelet rich plasma to speed healing and promote the growth of healthy tissues. All of the surgeons at the Ankle Arthritis Institute are board-certified podiatrists with years of experience. To schedule your appointment with one of our world-class physicians and to find out if ankle arthroscopy can relieve your ankle arthritis symptoms, contact us today.