Ankle arthroscopy is keyhole surgery that lets the surgeon see inside and treat the ankle joint through small incisions. It is used for impingement, loose fragments and cartilage problems, with a quicker recovery than open surgery.
When is ankle arthroscopy considered?
Arthroscopy is considered when ankle pain is caused by impingement, loose fragments, scar tissue, synovitis or selected cartilage injuries that have not improved with non-surgical care.
Can I avoid surgery?
What happens during the procedure
Small keyhole incisions are made around the ankle
A camera confirms the problem inside the joint
Special instruments remove inflamed tissue, bone spurs or loose fragments
The wounds are closed and the ankle is dressed
Recovery timeline
- First 1–2 weeks — swelling control and wound care
- 2–6 weeks — walking and physiotherapy progress depending on what was treated
- 6–12 weeks — return to gym work and low-impact activity
- 3–4 months — sport may resume for suitable cases
Risks & complications
Risks include infection, swelling, stiffness, nerve irritation, blood clots and persistent pain if arthritis or cartilage damage is more advanced than expected.
Costs & insurance
Self-pay consultations are £250 (new) and £175 (follow-up). The procedure price is confirmed after your consultation. We are recognised by all the main insurers including Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva and Cigna.
Questions & answers
It is less invasive than open surgery, but it still needs proper recovery and physiotherapy.
It can help selected mechanical symptoms, but it does not reverse established ankle arthritis.
Usually two small portals are used, though the exact approach depends on the problem being treated.
Many people walk early in a boot or supportive dressing, but weight-bearing depends on the procedure performed.
