Ankle Arthroscopy

Ankle arthroscopy is indicated for numerous sports-related injuries and conditions. It provides a rapid and reliable means of directly visualizing and treating all ankle intraarticular structures and can be a valuable adjunct in the treatment of ankle fractures. Advances in the areas of instrumentation and diagnostic imaging, namely magnetic resonance imaging, have expanded the role for ankle athroscopy. Ankle arthroscopy is relatively simple but can be significantly more challenging than routine knee or shoulder work. It is of critical importance to have the proper equipment and to consider certain aspects of patient positioning to optimize surgical success. Sports medicine specialists and general orthopedic surgeons, as well as foot and ankle specialists, should feel comfortable performing diagnostic ankle arthroscopy. A straightforward technique for routine ankle arthroscopy is presented. Operative results from the United States Naval Academy will be discussed.