Zeehan S. Husain, DPM

Charles G. Kissel, DPM

Michael S. Schey, DPM

Angela Stoutenburg, DPM

Arthroscopy of the Foot and 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 surgeons and adapted to foot and ankle joints.  The podiatric surgeons from the Rochester Center for Foot and Ankle Surgery use arthroscopy to treat joint problems as well as aid in repairing broken bones when they involve large joints.

Your podiatric 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 surgeon introduces a tiny camera to inspect the joint.  The podiatric 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 surgeons may perform arthroscopic surgery in hospitals or outpatient surgery centers.  Arthroscopy is performed as an out-patient procedure.  Your podiatric surgeon will discuss all aspects of surgery with you.

Instrumentation

Podiatric 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 techniques allow for a variety of procedures that are performed in foot and ankle joints. The following table reflects conditions for which arthroscopy may be indicated to diagnose and treat.

Advantages of arthroscopic surgery include reduced trauma due to the small instruments used.  Small instruments cause less damage to the soft tissue (skin, ligaments, capsule, and tendons) and bony structures.  Movement of the joint reduces swelling, stiffness, and postoperative discomfort.  Your podiatric surgeon may recommend early physical therapy to hasten your recovery to bathing, walking, and sports activity.

Post-Operative Care

Your podiatric surgeon may recommend rest, ice, compression, and elevation to help speed healing.

Rest— Ask your podiatric 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 minimize effect of gravity on fluid retention in the foot. This helps to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Summary

Arthroscopy allows your podiatric surgeon to look directly into your ankle and reach an accurate diagnosis.  Early recognition and treatment with arthroscopy, a minimal invasive technique, may result in quicker healing time and return to activity.