Ankle arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy at IMC Priora
Pain in the ankle, swelling, a feeling of “locking,” clicking, instability, or recurrent sprains can significantly limit mobility and everyday activities—especially in athletes, recreationally active people, and those who spend a lot of time standing or walking. Patients often report that the ankle “isn’t the same as before,” that it fatigues quickly, swells after exertion, or that pain worsens when walking downstairs or on uneven ground. At IMC Priora, we perform ankle arthroscopy. This modern minimally invasive procedure enables precise diagnosis and treatment of intra-articular problems, with less tissue trauma and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Arthroscopy is often recommended when conservative measures (rest, physiotherapy, targeted exercises, orthoses, injections) do not provide satisfactory results or when there is a clear mechanical problem within the joint. The most common indications include repair of ruptured ankle ligaments, cartilage damage, loose bodies, synovitis (inflammation and thickening of the joint lining), bony spurs, impingement syndrome (“pinching” at the front or back of the ankle), and consequences of previous injuries. The goal of the procedure is to reduce pain, improve mobility, decrease swelling, and restore stability and confidence when moving.
What an ankle arthroscopy procedure looks like
Ankle arthroscopy is performed through two to three small incisions (portals) through which a camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments are introduced into the joint. The camera provides a magnified, detailed view of the inside of the joint, allowing the physician to accurately assess the condition of the cartilage, ligaments, joint lining, and any mechanical obstacles. The advantage is that, depending on the findings, treatment can be carried out during the same procedure: repair ruptured ligaments, remove inflamed or scar tissue, remove loose bodies, treat damaged cartilage, remove bony spurs that cause “impingement,” and address certain lesions resulting from sprains or fractures.
A minimally invasive approach means less damage to surrounding structures, less postoperative pain, and often a faster functional recovery. After the procedure, the rehabilitation plan is individualized based on the extent of the surgery and your goals (returning to pain-free walking, work, recreation, or sport). Typically, the focus is on controlling swelling, gradually restoring range of motion, strengthening the ankle’s stabilizers, and proprioception training to reduce the risk of reinjury.
When to see an orthopaedic specialist
If ankle pain lasts longer than a few weeks, if swelling recurs after activity, or if you experience instability, a feeling that the joint is “giving way,” catching, or locking, do not wait for symptoms to become chronic. A timely orthopaedic evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis and choosing the optimal treatment—whether rehabilitation, injection-based therapies, or surgical management. It is especially important to seek assessment after recurrent sprains or if you have had an injury that never fully “settled.” Schedule an appointment at Hallux Orthopaedics so we can assess your ankle and explain whether you are a candidate for ankle arthroscopy. Surgical procedures are performed at IMC Priora, with a clearly defined recovery plan and return to everyday activities.
Marko Džapo, MD
Medical team
