ARTHROSCOPIC ANKLE CARTILAGE REPAIR

If you need a Arthroscopic Ankle Cartilage Repair, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is An Arthroscopic Ankle Cartilage Repair?

Surgeons perform arthroscopic ankle cartilage repair as a minimally invasive surgical procedure to address damaged or injured cartilage within the ankle joint. This procedure utilizes an arthroscope, a small camera inserted into the joint through tiny incisions. This enables the surgeon to visualize and treat the issue.

Cartilage, a robust and flexible tissue covering the ends of bones within joints, facilitates smooth, pain-free movement. Damage to ankle cartilage, caused by injury, wear and tear, or specific medical conditions, can result in pain, swelling, and restricted joint function.

Arthroscopic Ankle Cartilage Repair Procedure

During ankle arthroscopic surgery, the surgical team administers anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure. Physicians provide options including general anesthesia or regional anesthesia to numb the lower body. Following anesthesia, the surgeon makes small incisions around the ankle joint to insert an arthroscope, a slender instrument equipped with a camera. This enables the surgeon to visualize the extent and location of the cartilage damage within the joint. Depending on the size and location of the cartilage defect, the surgeon utilizes various techniques to repair the damaged cartilage.

These methods involve microfracture, where the surgeon creates tiny holes in the bone beneath the damaged cartilage to stimulate the growth of new cartilage cells. Additionally, there’s osteochondral autograft or allograft transplantation. During this procedure the surgeon extracts healthy cartilage tissue from another part of the joint or from a donor and implants it into the damaged area. Another option is autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), in which the surgeon harvests cartilage cells from the patient’s own joint. Further they culture the cells in a lab to increase their number, and then implants them into the damaged area. After completing the cartilage repair, the surgeon closes the incisions with stitches or surgical tape. Additionally, they may immobilize the ankle in a splint or cast to protect it during the initial healing phase.

Arthroscopic Ankle Cartilage Repair Benefits

Arthroscopic ankle cartilage repair offers numerous benefits for individuals suffering from cartilage damage. This minimally invasive procedure involves smaller incisions, reducing surgical trauma and leading to faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. Patients typically experience less post-operative pain and lower risks of infection, resulting in a more comfortable recovery process.

One of the key advantages is the improvement in joint function and mobility. By addressing the damaged cartilage, the procedure helps restore the ankle’s normal movement, reducing pain and enhancing overall quality of life. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes or active individuals, allowing them to return to their regular activities more quickly and with improved performance.

Additionally, arthroscopic surgery often leads to better cosmetic outcomes due to smaller scars. The precision of the technique allows for targeted repair, preserving healthy tissue and promoting more effective healing. Overall, arthroscopic ankle cartilage repair offers a safer, more efficient, and cosmetically favorable option for treating ankle cartilage injuries.

Arthroscopic Ankle Cartilage Repair Recovery

After surgery, engaging in rehabilitation and physical therapy is crucial for aiding recovery, strengthening the ankle joint, and improving the success of cartilage repair. This process enhances the joint’s overall function and mobility. Arthroscopic ankle cartilage repair, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications, including infection, blood clots, and ongoing joint pain.

The success of this procedure depends on several factors, such as the extent of cartilage damage, the patient’s overall health, and strict adherence to post-operative rehabilitation protocols. Therefore, having a thorough discussion with an orthopedic surgeon is essential to determine if arthroscopic ankle cartilage repair is the best option for an individual’s specific condition. This collaborative approach ensures a tailored treatment plan, maximizing the chances of a successful outcome and a return to normal activities.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.