Arthroscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive or keyhole surgery, is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint-related conditions. This technique involves the insertion of a small, flexible camera called an arthroscope through tiny incisions in the skin near the affected joint. The arthroscope provides a clear view of the joint’s interior on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to examine, repair, or remove damaged tissues.
Dr. Ryan M. Sherick at the Apex Foot & Ankle Institute in Thousand Oaks, California provides advanced techniques in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopic surgery for all aspects of the foot and ankle.
Arthroscopic surgery offers numerous advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced pain, faster recovery, and less scarring. It is commonly used to address issues in the knee, shoulder, hip, and other joints. Common procedures include repairing torn ligaments, removing bone spurs, and treating conditions like arthritis.
Patients who undergo arthroscopic surgery can often return to their regular activities more quickly, making it a preferred choice for many orthopedic issues. However, the suitability of this procedure depends on the individual’s condition and should be determined in consultation with a medical professional.
During the procedure of Arthroscopic Surgery, the surgeon does the following:
Incision: The surgeon creates small incisions near the affected joint, typically ¼ to ½ inch in size.
Arthroscope Insertion: A thin, flexible arthroscope with a camera is inserted through one incision, providing a clear view of the joint’s interior.
Inspection: The surgeon examines the joint, identifying any issues such as damaged cartilage, torn ligaments, or inflammation.
Treatment: Using specialized instruments, the surgeon can repair or remove damaged tissues, bone spurs, or foreign objects.
Closure: After completing the necessary procedures, the incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips.
Indications for Ankle and Foot Arthroscopic Surgery
A Comprehensive Guide by Apex Foot & Ankle Institute
Ankle and foot arthroscopic surgery is a cutting-edge medical procedure that offers minimally invasive solutions to a range of orthopedic conditions. Dr. Ryan M. Sherick and the team at Apex Foot & Ankle Institute in Los Angeles are experts in this field. In this article, we will explore the various indications for ankle and foot arthroscopic surgery, shedding light on how it can effectively treat conditions such as ankle arthritis, fractures, instability, impingements, and more.
Ankle Arthritis: Ankle arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the ankle joint. It can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and difficulty in mobility. Ankle arthroscopic surgery can provide relief by removing damaged tissue and smoothing joint surfaces, thereby reducing pain and improving joint function.
Ankle Fractures: In the case of ankle fractures, arthroscopic surgery is used to evaluate and repair any associated soft tissue injuries or unstable joint fragments. This minimally invasive approach enables precise visualization of the fracture site, reducing the risk of complications and promoting faster healing.
Ankle Instability: Ankle instability is often a result of ligament damage or laxity. Arthroscopy can be employed to assess and address ligamentous injuries, offering patients a more stable ankle joint and reducing the likelihood of recurrent sprains.
Anterior Ankle Impingement: Anterior ankle impingement occurs when there is excessive friction and pain in the front of the ankle joint. Arthroscopic surgery allows for the removal of bone spurs or inflamed tissue, providing relief and restoring normal joint function.
Arthrofibrosis: Arthrofibrosis is a condition where excessive scar tissue forms within the joint, limiting its range of motion. Arthroscopic surgery is a valuable tool in releasing and removing the scar tissue, thereby improving joint mobility and function.
Infection: In cases of joint infection, arthroscopy can be employed for both diagnosis and treatment. The procedure enables the surgeon to drain and debride infected tissue, which is crucial for preventing the spread of infection and preserving the joint’s integrity.
Loose Bodies: Loose bodies within the ankle joint can cause pain, swelling, and joint instability. Arthroscopic surgery is ideal for the removal of these loose fragments, restoring comfort and function.
Osteochondral Defect (OCD): Osteochondral defects are areas of damaged cartilage and underlying bone. Arthroscopy can be used to visualize and address these defects, promoting healing and preventing further joint degeneration.
Posterior Ankle Impingement: Posterior ankle impingement is characterized by pain and limited motion at the back of the ankle. Arthroscopic surgery can alleviate this condition by addressing bone spurs, inflamed tissue, or soft tissue impingements in the posterior ankle joint.
Ankle or Foot Synovitis: Synovitis is inflammation of the synovial membrane that lines the ankle joint. Arthroscopy can be utilized to remove inflamed tissue, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.
Generalized Ankle Pain: Generalized ankle pain without a specific diagnosis can be particularly challenging. Arthroscopic surgery can serve as a diagnostic tool, allowing the surgeon to directly visualize the joint, identify the cause of pain, and address it effectively.
Ankle and foot arthroscopic surgery, provided by experts like Dr. Ryan M. Sherick at Apex Foot & Ankle Institute in Thousand Oaks, California offers an array of treatment options for various foot and ankle conditions. Whether it’s addressing arthritis, fractures, instability, impingements, or other issues, arthroscopy is a minimally invasive, highly effective approach to improve joint function, alleviate pain, and restore mobility. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these issues, consult with Dr. Sherick to explore the potential benefits of arthroscopic surgery for your condition. The team at Apex Foot & Ankle Institute is dedicated to providing the best in foot and ankle care through cutting-edge techniques like arthroscopy.
Arthroscopy of the Subtalar and Small Joints of the Foot
Arthroscopy of the subtalar and small joints of the foot is a specialized surgical procedure designed to diagnose and treat various conditions affecting these joints. Whether you’re preparing for this surgery or seeking information about what to expect, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Before the Procedure:
Before undergoing arthroscopy of the subtalar and small joints of the foot, it’s crucial to prepare adequately. Here’s what you need to do:
Consultation: Schedule a consultation with your orthopedic surgeon. This is the time to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you might have. Your surgeon will also explain the procedure and answer any questions.
Medical Evaluation: Your surgeon may require you to undergo certain medical tests to ensure you are in good health for the surgery. These tests might include blood work, X-rays, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
Medications: Inform your surgeon about any medications you are taking. Some medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued, particularly blood-thinning medications.
During the 2 Weeks Before Your Surgery:
In the two weeks leading up to your surgery, there are several important steps to take:
Lifestyle Adjustments: Your surgeon may recommend lifestyle modifications. It’s essential to maintain a healthy diet, quit smoking, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption to promote optimal healing.
Physical Therapy: Depending on your condition, your surgeon might recommend physical therapy to improve joint function and strengthen surrounding muscles.
On the Day of Surgery:
As the day of surgery approaches, here’s what you can expect:
Fasting: You will typically be instructed not to eat or drink anything for a certain period before the surgery. This is to ensure your stomach is empty during the procedure.
Anesthesia: Most arthroscopic procedures are performed under local or regional anesthesia, although general anesthesia is an option. Your anesthesiologist and surgeon will discuss the best option for you.
The Procedure: During the surgery, small incisions are made to insert an arthroscope and specialized surgical instruments. This allows the surgeon to examine and, if necessary, treat the subtalar and small joints of the foot. The procedure is minimally invasive, reducing the risk of complications and promoting faster recovery.
After the Procedure:
Recovery from arthroscopy of the subtalar and small joints of the foot is generally faster compared to traditional open surgery. Here’s what you can expect after the procedure:
Recovery Room: You’ll spend some time in the recovery room to ensure you wake up comfortably from the anesthesia.
Pain Management: Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to manage post-operative discomfort.
Rest and Elevation: Elevating your foot and resting are crucial in the initial days after surgery. This helps reduce swelling and promotes healing.
Physical Therapy: You may be advised to start physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility in your foot and ankle.
Follow-Up Appointments: You’ll have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan.
Arthroscopy of the subtalar and small joints of the foot can be an effective treatment for various foot conditions. By following these pre- and post-operative guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery. Your orthopedic surgeon and healthcare team will provide you with personalized care and support throughout the process.
Arthroscopic surgery, a remarkable advancement in the field of orthopedics, offers a range of significant advantages for patients. This minimally invasive technique involves the use of small incisions and specialized instruments, resulting in several benefits:
Less Invasive: Arthroscopic surgery requires smaller incisions, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing.
Minimal Scarring: The small incisions lead to minimal scarring, which is cosmetically more appealing for patients.
Improved Precision: Arthroscopy provides enhanced visibility, allowing surgeons like Dr. Ryan M. Sherick to diagnose and treat joint issues with greater precision.
Less Postoperative Pain: Patients often experience less pain and discomfort after arthroscopic surgery, which may reduce the need for strong pain medications.
Faster Recovery: This minimally invasive approach typically results in shorter hospital stays and quicker return to regular activities.
Reduced Complications: The reduced trauma to the surrounding tissues leads to fewer complications and a lower risk of postoperative infection.
Dr. Ryan M. Sherick, a highly regarded fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon in Thousand Oaks, California, specializes in arthroscopic procedures, ensuring patients receive the best in minimally invasive care with optimal outcomes. Dr. Sherick proudly provides arthroscopic ankle and foot care to the following areas in California: Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Agoura Hills, Malibu, Calabasas, West Hills, Chatsworth, and the entire Conejo Valley, Santa Rosa Valley, and greater Los Angeles area.
