Minimally Invasive Ankle Arthroscopy Surgery in Morgantown, WV
Leading Arthroscopic Ankle Surgery for Pain Relief
Chronic ankle pain, stiffness, or instability can prevent you from enjoying your daily life, whether you’re an athlete sidelined from your sport or an individual struggling with simple activities like walking. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, you may feel like you're out of options. Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopedic specialists to diagnose and treat a wide range of ankle joint problems with precision, leading to less pain and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Since 1977, Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates (MOA) has been dedicated to providing cutting-edge care to patients in Morgantown and North Central West Virginia. Our fellowship-trained ankle specialists have extensive experience in advanced procedures like ankle arthroscopy. We prioritize building strong patient-physician relationships, ensuring you receive personalized care tailored to your unique condition. Performing surgeries at the state-of-the-art Mon Health Medical Center, we combine decades of expertise with modern technology to achieve the best possible outcomes for you.
Don’t let ankle pain hold you back any longer. At MOA, we can often schedule appointments faster than major health systems, giving you quick access to an ankle orthopedic specialist. Contact us today to learn if ankle arthroscopy is the right solution for you.
What is ankle arthroscopy surgery, and how does it work?
Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside the ankle joint. The procedure involves making a few small incisions around the ankle. Through one incision, your orthopedic surgeon inserts a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, which projects a live image of the inside of your joint onto a high-definition monitor. Through the other small incisions, the surgeon can insert specialized, pencil-thin instruments to repair or remove damaged tissue. This approach allows for a highly detailed examination and precise treatment without the need for a large incision, resulting in less scarring, reduced pain, and a quicker recovery for most patients.
What conditions can be treated with ankle arthroscopy?
Ankle arthroscopy is a versatile procedure that can address a variety of ankle conditions. It is commonly used to treat ankle impingement, where soft tissue or bone gets pinched in the joint, causing pain and limiting motion. Surgeons also use it to remove loose bodies, such as fragments of bone or cartilage, that can cause the joint to lock or click. Other treatable conditions include cartilage damage (osteochondral defects), ligament instability or tears, synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining), and certain types of ankle fractures. Our ankle specialists at MOA will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if your specific condition can be effectively treated with this minimally invasive technique.
How do I know if I need ankle arthroscopy?
Deciding if you need ankle arthroscopy begins with a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. You may be a candidate if you have persistent ankle pain, swelling, instability, or stiffness that has not improved with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medication, or bracing. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and likely order imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to get a clear picture of the structures inside your ankle joint. If these tests indicate a problem that can be addressed arthroscopically, your surgeon will discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure with you.
What is the recovery process like after ankle arthroscopy?
Recovery from ankle arthroscopy is generally faster and less painful than recovery from traditional open surgery. However, the specific timeline depends on the complexity of your procedure. Immediately following surgery, you will likely need to keep your ankle elevated and use crutches to avoid putting weight on it. Most patients wear a splint or boot for a period to protect the joint as it heals. Physical therapy is a crucial part of the recovery process, helping to restore range of motion, strength, and stability. While some patients can return to light activities within a few weeks, a full return to sports or strenuous work can take several months. Your MOA surgeon will provide a detailed, personalized recovery plan.
How much does ankle arthroscopy surgery cost?
The cost of an ankle arthroscopy procedure varies depending on several factors, including the specifics of your surgery, your insurance plan’s coverage, and facility fees. The total cost typically covers the surgeon's fee, anesthesia, and the use of the outpatient surgery center. Most insurance providers cover ankle arthroscopy when it is deemed medically necessary. The administrative team at Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates is here to help you navigate your insurance benefits and provide a clear estimate of any potential out-of-pocket expenses, ensuring you can make an informed financial decision about your care.
More Questions About Ankle Surgery
Do I need a referral to see an ankle specialist at MOA?
No, a referral is not necessary to schedule an appointment with one of our ankle orthopedic specialists. We provide direct access to expert care, so you can see a doctor promptly when ankle pain arises.
How quickly can I schedule an appointment for ankle arthroscopy?
At Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates, we understand that living with ankle pain is difficult. We pride ourselves on being able to schedule new patient appointments much faster than many larger health systems, helping you get on the path to recovery sooner.
What should I expect during an ankle arthroscopy consultation?
Your consultation will involve a comprehensive evaluation by one of our fellowship-trained ankle specialists. They will discuss your symptoms and medical history, perform a physical examination of your ankle, and review any X-rays or MRI scans. This allows them to make an accurate diagnosis and determine if ankle arthroscopy is the best treatment for you. They will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you have.
Are there non-surgical options for ankle conditions?
Yes, many ankle conditions can first be managed with non-surgical treatments. These often include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and the use of supportive braces or orthotics. We typically explore these conservative options before recommending surgery. If your pain and symptoms persist despite these efforts, arthroscopic surgery may be the next step to provide lasting relief.