About ankle arthroscopy
Need to know
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What happens icon plus
Arthroscopy is usually done under general anaesthetic, meaning you'll be asleep during the procedure. Sometimes it can be done using local or regional anaesthetic, which numbs the area being operated on. Your consultant will make make tiny 1cm cuts on either side of your ankle to insert the arthroscope. A sterile solution will then be used to wash out your joint so that they can see inside it more clearly. If they identify a problem, specialised surgical instruments can be used alongside the arthroscope to repair it. This might include removing bone spurs or reconstructing torn ligaments. The whole procedure usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. If you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking beforehand. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. Before surgery, your consultant may recommend a CT or MRI scan to help identify any problems with your ankle joint. -
Afterwards icon plus
After the procedure, your consultant will remove the arthroscope and use stitches or adhesive strips to close the small cuts. You should be able to go home the same day, but occasionally you may need to be cared for in hospital overnight. The leg that's been operated on needs to be elevated for 24 to 48 hours after surgery. It's not uncommon for your ankle to be swollen and tender for a few days. Ice and physiotherapy exercises can help. Your consultant will let you know what to expect and how to care for your ankle while it heals. They'll also let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.
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Our facilities
From complex foot surgery to straightforward ankle procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
London NW8 9LE
Appointments 0207 483 5148
Enquiries 0207 586 5959
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
Appointments & Enquiries 020 7234 2009
Imaging Appointments 020 7234 2773
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
Appointments 020 7908 8001
Enquiries 020 7486 1234
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Institute of Sport Exercise and Health
170 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 7HA
Call 020 3447 2800
[Mon | Weds | Fri] 8am - 6pm
[Tues | Thurs] 8am - 8pm -
London Ankle & Arthritis Centre
Platinum Medical Centre
15-17 Lodge Road, St John's Wood
London NW8 7JA
Call 020 7042 1828
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Platinum Medical Centre
Platinum Medical Centre, 15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
Call 020 7483 5148