Arthroscopy of the foot and ankle is used to examine and treat joint conditions. The procedure uses an arthroscope, a thin fiber-optic camera, which enables the surgeon to view close-up images of the inside of the ankle and/or foot while working. This usually allows for a less invasive procedure than traditional open surgery, as only a small incision is necessary for the arthroscope, which is about as wide as a drinking straw.
Among many other conditions, ankle and foot arthroscopy can be used to assess and treat fractures, arthritis, infection, impingement (bony and soft-tissue), joint instability, bone chips, and ligament damage.
