About Ankle Arthroscopy with Brostrom Ligament Repair

An ankle arthroscopy with Brostrom ligament repair is a surgical procedure commonly used to address chronic ankle instability due to an injured or damaged Brostrom ligament. This procedure involves the insertion of a small camera into the ankle joint to allow the surgeon to visualize the joint throughout the procedure. This procedure involves the insertion of a small camera into the ankle joint to allow the surgeon to visualize the joint throughout the procedure. Using the camera, the surgeon will repair or reconstruct the ligament as needed. 

Since this procedure is performed using an arthroscopic approach, it is less invasive than traditional surgery. The use of a small camera allows the surgeon to perform the surgery and assess the area through a smaller incision. Moreover, the smaller incision allows patients to experience a more comfortable and shorter recovery process.

When is this Procedure Necessary?

As with most surgical procedures, it is highly recommended that patients first consider conservative treatment options. Although you cannot treat underlying arthritis, it is possible to find ways to manage your pain. Often, patients find relief from conservative options including physical therapy, hot and cold therapy, and anti-inflammatory pain medications. 

If these methods are ineffective, you may begin to consider surgery. Depending on your condition, your surgeon will recommend the most effective, least invasive treatment path. An arthroscopic ankle assessment with Brostrom ligament repair is an excellent surgical option for patients who experience difficulty walking and other debilitating symptoms. 

You may begin to consider an arthroscopic ankle assessment with Brostrom ligament repair if:

• You experience constant chronic ankle pain
• Recurring ankle sprains
• Midfoot cavus
• Plantar flexion of the first ray

Preparing for Your Procedure

Before the procedure, your orthopedic surgeon will asses your overall health to ensure you are a suitable candidate. They will give you instructions on what to expect for the recovery, as well as important directions to follow before the surgery. Since patients will be under anesthesia, they must follow any directions relating to fasting the night before.

During this procedure, the patient will be put under general anesthesia so they do not experience any discomfort. The surgeon will begin by making a small incision and will insert an arthroscope to view the Brostrom ligament. This arthroscope allows the surgeon to perform this surgery without the need for a substantial incision. The surgeon may detach the ATFL and CFL ligaments from the fibula to shorten them. The surgeon will then reattach these ligaments to the fibula by drilling small holes into the bone. Your orthopedic surgeon may make additional corrections, if necessary.

After the operation, patients will experience some discomfort in the weeks following. They will be given antibiotics and pain medications to manage any pain they feel. Patients will be given a splint to ensure the area does not become injured during the healing process. Patients will need to return to their orthopedic surgeon a week or two after the procedure to have the staples or stitches removed. It is very important to closely follow all instructions regarding rest and avoiding physical activity. Patients who jump back into their routine too quickly after surgery are at risk of further injuring the newly treated ankle.

Ankle Arthroscopy with Brostrom Ligament Repair with Smith Medical

At Smith Medical, we understand the complexities of healthcare. Today, many procedures and treatments are unattainable due to their lofty price. Direct pay allows patients without insurance access to quality healthcare. It is Smith Medical’s mission to provide our patients with the accessible, transparent, and quality care they deserve. 

Contact the team at Smith Medical to learn more today.