Ankle Arthroscopy
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
Ankle arthroscopy is a procedure to look inside your ankle joint. Your healthcare provider will use an arthroscope (tube with a light and camera on the end) to see the joint. An arthroscopy can be used to remove, repair, or rebuild part of your ankle.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have trouble breathing.
Call your doctor or orthopedist if:
- Blood soaks through your bandage.
- Your stitches come apart.
- Your splint or cast comes off.
- You have a fever.
- You have more pain in your ankle, even after you take pain medicines.
- Your wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Wound care:
Keep your bandage clean and dry. When you are allowed to bathe, carefully wash the wound with soap and water. Dry the area and put on new, clean bandages as directed. Change your bandages when they get wet or dirty.
Self-care:
- Rest your ankle as directed. A cast, brace, or splint may be needed until your ankle heals. Your healthcare provider will tell you when to start walking. You may need to use crutches at first. A physical or occupational therapist may show you how to stand and walk safely. You will also get instructions for when you can drive and do other daily activities.
- Apply ice on your ankle to reduce swelling and pain. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you apply it to your ankle. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour, or as directed.
- Elevate (raise) your ankle above the level of your heart as often as you can for 3 days. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your ankle on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
Go to physical therapy if directed:
A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain.
Follow up with your doctor or orthopedist as directed:
You will need to return to have your wound checked and stitches removed. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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