Ankle Arthroscopy in Greenville, SC
WHAT IS ANKLE ARTHROSCOPY?
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the ankle joint. Using a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments, the surgeon can view and treat damaged tissue through tiny incisions.
This technique allows for precise treatment of a variety of ankle conditions, including cartilage damage, bone spurs, inflammation, and loose fragments—often with less pain and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
WHAT CONDITIONS DOES ANKLE ARTHROSCOPY TREAT?
It’s often recommended when conservative treatments haven’t resolved symptoms.
Here are the most common conditions it’s used to treat:
Ankle Impingement
Pinching of soft tissue or bone in the front or back of the ankle, often causing pain with movement or limited range of motion.
Cartilage Damage (Osteochondral Lesions)
Injury or wear to the cartilage and underlying bone in the joint, which can cause pain, swelling, and catching sensations.
Loose Bodies in the Joint
Small fragments of bone or cartilage that float within the joint and may cause locking, clicking, or discomfort.
Bone Spurs
Extra bone growth that can restrict motion and lead to pain, especially in athletes or people with repetitive ankle stress.
Synovitis (Inflammation of the Joint Lining)
Inflamed joint tissue that leads to swelling, stiffness, and pain.
Ankle Arthritis (Early Stages)
Arthroscopy can help clean out inflamed tissue or debris to reduce symptoms and improve joint movement.
Ligament Injuries & Chronic Instability
In some cases, arthroscopy is used alongside ligament repair to assess or treat damage contributing to instability.
Infection (Septic Arthritis)
Used to clean out infected joint tissue in certain cases.
Scar Tissue Formation
Excess scar tissue from previous injuries or surgeries that limits mobility and causes pain.
Debridement of Damaged Tissue
Removal of inflamed tissue, loose cartilage, or bone fragments that cause pain and limited motion.
Bone Spur Removal
Smoothing or removing bone overgrowth that restricts movement or causes impingement.
Cartilage Repair
Treating areas of cartilage damage to improve joint function and reduce discomfort.
Treatment of Ankle Impingement
Relieving pinched soft tissue or bone that limits range of motion.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Options May Include:
