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Ankle arthroscopy / fusion consult procedures
Category: Bone, Joint & Spine Procedures · All bone, joint & spine procedures
What it is
Two keyhole/joint procedures for the ankle: arthroscopy treats problems inside the joint (loose bodies, impingement, cartilage flaps) through a camera; ankle fusion (arthrodesis) permanently stiffens a severely arthritic ankle by joining the shin and ankle bones, trading movement for pain relief.
Why it is done
Arthroscopy suits mechanical problems in a joint without advanced arthritis. Fusion is offered for end-stage ankle arthritis with disabling pain when joint replacement is unsuitable or not preferred.
How to prepare
Assessment includes standing X-rays and often CT or MRI. Both are day-case or short-stay with fasting; fusion needs a longer rehabilitation plan — crutches, a boot or cast, and time off driving.
What happens during the procedure
Arthroscopy uses two small cuts and takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Fusion, done open or arthroscopically assisted, removes remaining cartilage and fixes the bones with screws (sometimes a plate) in a functional position, taking one to two hours.
Afterwards — recovery & results
After arthroscopy most walk the same day and recover over two to four weeks. After fusion, the ankle is protected in a cast or boot for about 10 to 12 weeks with restricted weight-bearing initially, followed by physiotherapy; the gait adapts and most people walk comfortably on flat ground, with running and uneven ground more limited.
Risks & considerations
Arthroscopy risks are those of keyhole surgery (infection, nerve irritation, stiffness). Fusion risks include non-union, infection, blood clots, hardware prominence and increased stress on neighbouring joints over the years.
Watch: Ankle arthroscopy / fusion consult procedures videos
Real procedure videos from the MedicalVideos.com library. Some clinical footage is graphic — that is the nature of a medical video library.
Frequently asked questions
Fusion sounds drastic — why choose it?
For a painful, worn-out ankle it reliably removes the arthritic pain and is durable. The stiffness is compensated by the midfoot and a rocker-soled shoe, and many patients walk well.
Is ankle replacement an alternative?
In suitable patients, yes — it preserves some movement. Suitability depends on age, activity, alignment and bone quality; your surgeon will discuss both.
Related procedures — Bone, Joint & Spine Procedures
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