Expert Care for Ankle Arthroscopy Surgery
Step Forward Again After Ankle Pain or Injury
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera, called an arthroscope, to look inside the ankle joint and diagnose or repair damage without a large incision, treating everything from ligament damage to cartilage injuries with less downtime than open surgery.
At HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, Dr. Stuart Springer brings more than 40 years of experience as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopic surgery, with offices across New York and New Jersey. He takes the time to understand each patient's goals before recommending a treatment plan, and patients recovering from a sports injury, a workplace accident, no fault accident, or other form of personal injury can count on that same thorough evaluation.
If ankle pain, swelling, or instability is holding you back, request an appointment with HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care today.
What to Expect from Ankle Arthroscopy Surgery
Understanding the Procedure and Recovery
Ankle arthroscopy is one of several arthroscopic procedures offered at HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care, alongside similar treatments for the knee, hip, and shoulder.
What Ankle Arthroscopy Can Treat
Ankle arthroscopy can diagnose and treat several common sources of joint pain and instability, including:
- Ligament tears or chronic ankle instability
- Cartilage damage or osteochondral lesions
- Ankle impingement, where bone or soft tissue restricts movement
- Loose fragments of bone or cartilage
- Scar tissue following a prior injury
How the Procedure Works
The surgeon makes a few small incisions around the ankle. The arthroscope goes in through one incision to give a clear, magnified view of the joint, while small instruments work through the others to repair or remove damaged tissue. Most patients go home the same day.
What Recovery Looks Like
Recovery unfolds in stages, and most patients move through them like this:
- Right After Surgery: A brief period of rest and limited weight-bearing helps protect the joint as initial healing begins.
- First Few Weeks: Many patients gradually return to walking with support, depending on the extent of the repair.
- Longer Term: Physical therapy is often recommended to rebuild strength, stability, and range of motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can ankle arthroscopy treat?
Ankle arthroscopy can diagnose and treat a wide range of joint problems, including ligament damage, cartilage injuries, impingement, and loose fragments of bone or cartilage. It's often recommended when ankle pain, swelling, or instability hasn't improved with rest or physical therapy. Because the procedure allows direct visualization of the joint, it gives your provider a precise understanding of the issue, which often leads to a more targeted and effective treatment plan than relying on imaging alone.
How much does ankle arthroscopy cost, and will insurance cover it?
The cost of ankle arthroscopy depends on factors like the extent of the repair needed and your specific insurance coverage. HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care accepts most major insurance plans, along with personal injury and workers' compensation claims, and our team is happy to walk through coverage details during a consultation. You can find more information on our insurance page, or reach out directly with any questions about your specific plan.
What happens during my consultation for ankle arthroscopy?
Most patients come to us already diagnosed with ligament damage, cartilage injury, or another joint problem, often after other treatment hasn't provided lasting relief. During your consultation, Dr. Springer reviews your imaging and treatment history to confirm the right surgical approach for your specific injury, so you know exactly what to expect heading into surgery and recovery.
Will transportation be provided on the day of my surgery?
Yes. The surgical center provides transportation to and from the center on the day of your surgery, so you don't have to worry about driving or finding parking. New York and New Jersey both require a companion to accompany you on the day of surgery, and this service helps take care of that requirement too, which is often a relief for patients who don't have someone available to drive them.
Why should I choose HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care for ankle arthroscopy near me?
HighRise Orthopedic and Spine Care combines decades of orthopedic experience with a dedicated focus on joint preservation. Dr. Springer treats a range of arthroscopic procedures, from knee and hip surgery to shoulder repairs, so patients get consistent, experienced care regardless of which joint is affected.