What is instability of the ankle? Repeated ankle sprains may strain or tear the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This may lead to:
Surgery is considered when symptoms are persistent after physiotherapy, bracing and activity modification
What is Ankle Arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery which lets your surgeon look at and address abnormalities within the ankle joint via tiny incisions.
What happens during the operation? During the procedure your surgeon may:
What is a ligament stabilization?
Ligament stabilization is a procedure to reattach or repair the ligaments on the outside of the ankle and restore stability. Most patients have their existing ligaments tightened and re-attached (Broström repair). If the ligaments are badly injured, a tendon transplant or synthetic augmentation may be needed.
Advantages of Surgery
The goal of surgery is to:
After Surgery
Restoration
Week 0-2
● Apply ice often to help minimize swelling.
● Keep clothing clean and dry.
● Use crutches as directed.
● Keep wiggling toes to maintain circulation.
Week 2-6
Examining the wound and removing stitches.Continue wearing the boot (if directed).
Increase weight bearing gradually as tolerated.
Begin physiotherapy and ankle movement as advised.
Week 6–12
● Move on to strengthening exercises.
● Move from the boot to supportive footwear when suitable.
3 months later
● Move to strengthening and balance training.
● Gradually resume greater level activities.
● Only return to sport when cleared by your surgeon/physiotherapist.
How to Care for Ankle
Risks
The possible dangers are:
Return to Activities
Most patients are able to return to desk job in 2 to 6 weeks, depending on their mobility. Longer recuperation is often needed for jobs that involve extended standing or physical labor. Only go back behind the wheel when you are able to safely manage the car, you are not on sedating pain medication and your surgeon has cleared you to drive.Depending on healing, strength, and ankle stability, a gradual return to sport is common over 3–6 months. Everyone heals differently and your surgeon’s word should always be the last word.
What Does The Procedure Entail?
The technique involves an arthroscopy of the ankle combined with ligament stabilization. For most patients, this means strengthening and mending the existing ligaments. If they are sufficiently damaged, a tendon graft or other strengthening may be needed.
What to Expect!
The goal of surgery is:
Most people improve, but recovery is variable and no surgery can entirely remove the risk of future ankle issues.
After Your Operation
After surgery you will have a splint, cast or walking boot to preserve your ankle. You will need crutches initially but I will give you guidelines on how much weight you may safely put on your operated leg. Most patients go home on the day after surgery.
Your Recuperation
First Two Weeks
This time is about safeguarding the repair and letting your body continue to mend. I suggest you:
● keep your leg raised when you are able
● Ice often to minimize swelling
● keep your dressing clean and dry
● Follow the instructions on how to use your crutches
● Gently wiggle your toes to get the blood flowing
Week 2-6
At your review I will see how your wound is healing and how you are progressing. Depending on your recuperation you may start:
● Increase weight bearing progressively
● mild ankle movement
Weeks 6-12
Rehabilitation focuses on regaining mobility, strength and balance as recovery advances. Your physiotherapist will introduce strengthening exercises, balance training and walking progression progressively before returning to supportive footwear.
For over 3 months
In most patients there is continued improvement over the next several months.You should only start jogging, leaping and playing sport again after your ankle has recovered enough strength and stability and I have certified it is safe.
When to Contact Me
Contact my rooms immediately
If you have chest discomfort or trouble breathing, call emergency services immediately.
