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Arthroscopic Ankle Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is a is a minimally
invasive technique that can be used as both a diagnostic and operative
technique. Ankle arthroscopy can often be used to diagnose
conditions that cannot be seen with traditional imaging techniques such
as plain x-ray and MRI. Once the diagnosis is made, operative
arthroscopy can also be used to correct joint pathology.
Ankle arthroscopy is a helpful tool that is
used to help treat sports injuries. These injuries include a
number of different types of ankle
fractures and sprains. Ankle arthroscopy can be used to
'clean' the ankle of inflamed tissue and loose post-traumatic debris.
Ankle arthroscopy is performed on an
out-patient basis at a surgery center or hospital. Anesthesia is
usually general. Patients are usually able to walk on the ankle
the same day. Patients wear a compressive wrap for 7-10 days
following the procedure. Two small sutures are removed at 14 days
post-op.
The following is an arthroscopic image of
an ankle that shows severe inflammatory change due to rheumatoid
arthritis;

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