Minimally Invasive Surgery

Ankle Arthroscopy

A minimally invasive keyhole procedure to diagnose and treat ankle problems, with less pain and a faster recovery than traditional open surgery.

FRCS (T&O) Certified Same-week appointments available
What it treats

Conditions treated with arthroscopy

Arthroscopy gives a clear, magnified view inside the ankle joint, allowing both diagnosis and treatment in a single procedure. It is used across a wide range of conditions that cause persistent pain or instability.

Ligament tears & chronic instability

Stretched or torn ligaments cause the ankle to give way repeatedly, with pain, swelling, and a constant fear of further injury. Arthroscopic repair tightens or reconstructs the damaged ligaments, restoring stability and confidence.

Cartilage damage (osteochondral lesions)

The smooth cartilage covering the talus can be damaged by injury or repetitive stress, causing deep aching pain and swelling that worsens with activity. Arthroscopic treatment stimulates natural healing of the cartilage surface and helps prevent the lesion from deteriorating further.

Synovitis & joint inflammation

The synovial lining of the joint can become chronically inflamed, producing excess fluid and causing persistent swelling, warmth, and stiffness. Arthroscopic removal of the inflamed tissue reduces pain and swelling quickly, with far less disruption than open surgery.

Ankle impingement (anterior & posterior)

Bone spurs or excess soft tissue build up inside the joint, pinching painfully whenever the foot is flexed or pointed. Arthroscopic removal of these obstructions relieves the catching sensation and restores a full, comfortable range of motion.

Loose bodies in the joint

Fragments of bone or cartilage can break off and float freely inside the ankle, causing sudden locking, catching, or sharp pain during movement. These fragments are located and removed through the keyhole incisions, immediately easing the mechanical symptoms they cause.

Early joint degeneration

The gradual breakdown of joint cartilage causes increasing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility that can significantly affect quality of life. Arthroscopic debridement cleans the joint and removes damaged tissue, offering meaningful pain relief and buying time before more extensive surgery is needed.

The procedure

How ankle arthroscopy works

  1. Step 1

    Tiny incisions

    Two or three small keyhole incisions are made around the ankle, far smaller than open surgery.

  2. Step 2

    Magnified view

    A miniature camera gives a clear, magnified view of the joint on screen, guiding the surgeon precisely.

  3. Step 3

    Targeted treatment

    Fine instruments treat the problem through the same keyholes, with minimal disturbance to healthy tissue.

  4. Step 4

    Faster recovery

    Less tissue damage means reduced pain and a quicker return to everyday activity.

Take the next step

Find out if arthroscopy is right for you

Book a consultation with Mr Samir Hakeem for a clear diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.