PLEASE KEEP YOUR FOOT ELEVATED ABOVE YOUR HEART AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE FOR THE FIRST FEW WEEKS AFTER YOUR SURGERY

An Arthroscopy is an operation on a joint, which is done by a keyhole technique.  An instrument, which contains a video camera, is inserted into the joint to allow examination of the interior.  By using specially designed probes and instruments, any joint problems can also be treated.

How long will I be in hospital?
Ankle arthroscopies are performed under general anaesthetic and can be done as day case operations, or as an overnight stay.

What will happen afterwards?
When you have recovered from your anaesthetic, you can get up and walk on your ankle unless instructed otherwise. For a straightforward arthroscopy, a padded dressing is applied.  You may walk on this.

Stage 1: Day 7-8 after surgery

You will be seen in clinic.  The results of surgery will be discussed.  Depending on the degree of damage in the ankle you may be asked to commence physiotherapy at this stage.  If there was considerable damage, this may be delayed until after you have had your second review with Mr Williams.
The ankle may still be fairly swollen and stiff at this stage, so you should keep it up when not walking or exercising. If it gets very swollen, you can put some ice on it for 10-15 minutes at least 4 times a day.
Return to work (unless you have a heavy manual job which will take longer).
You should be fully weight bearing unless instructed otherwise by Mr Williams.

Stage 2:  3-4 weeks after surgery

You will need to be seen again by Mr Williams in his clinic to examine your ankle and discuss your progress.  If Mr Williams is happy with the ankle and you are making sound progress, you may not require another follow up appointment.  If you have had a more complex procedure, you will be required to come back to the clinic for a further review.

Physiotherapy after an arthroscopy

Physiotherapy is usually commenced one week after surgery, as it is important that you regain as much function as possible from the ankle after an arthroscopy.  The joint may be swollen and somewhat uncomfortable in the early stages post op.  Physiotherapy will help you to regain movement, decrease swelling and strengthen the muscles around the ankle to help avoid further ankle injuries.  Your physiotherapist will let you know how and when you can return to normal activities including sport.

Your return to sport will depend on the damage to your ankle, which caused you to have surgery in the first place, and on any other necessary treatment.  As this operation tends to be done for problems following an injury, this is an important factor in recovery for many people.

Depending on the severity of damage in your ankle, you may require anything from one week to three months of physiotherapy after your surgery.
Most people will get back to their previous level of activity in 2-3 months.

Returning to normal activities

Driving
If you have an automatic car and are comfortable, after left ankle surgery, you could drive within a couple of days of the operation.  Otherwise you can drive about 2 weeks after surgery, depending mainly on your comfort.

If you develop a fever associated with an increase in pain and a discharge from the wound please call Mr Williams’ secretary. If you have any questions please call Mr Williams’ secretary.
Thank you.