Ankle surgery is a type of orthopedic surgery that is performed to correct problems with the ankle joint, ligaments, tendons, or cartilage. The most advanced technique for ankle surgery, which is the minimally invasive arthroscopic ankle surgery, can treat a wide variety of ankle conditions, from ankle instability and fractures to arthritic damage. Patients who undergo arthroscopic ankle surgery experience less pain and a faster recovery, and have a lower risk of complications.

Your doctor may recommend ankle surgery if non-surgical methods don’t resolve the issue satisfactorily. If the earliest treatments have not relieved pain and restored mobility, these are important considerations for ankle surgery. However, even with the use of a minimally invasive technique, ankle surgery is still major surgery. It is recommended that you should discuss the treatment option thoroughly with your ankle surgeon, therefore communicate to the doctor your worries and concerns about ankle surgery.

If you aren’t sure of what questions to start with, you will see below some examples of pre-op questions you can ask your ankle surgeon.

1. What is the success rate for this type of surgery in treating my specific ankle issue?
2. How many times have you performed this procedure? Is it the best treatment option available for my ankle condition?
3. What are the advantages of this procedure? What are the risks and complications associated with it?
4. What would happen if I do not have the surgery?
5. What medicine will be used during the operation to block pain? Will I be unconscious during the surgery?
6. How long will ankle surgery take and what is the expected recovery time?
7. Will I need to stay in the hospital after surgery or can I go home the same day?
8. How do I prepare for recovery and ensure a successful outcome?
9. Will I be in pain after surgery? How will I manage the pain and have a more comfortable recovery?
10. Will I need physical therapy after surgery and how long will I be doing physical therapy exercises?
11. Will you be arranging for physical therapy services?
12. When can I expect to return to normal activities such as work, exercise, and social activities? When can I drive again?
13. What are the signs of ankle surgery complications? What should I do if I experience them, and who should I call after hours?

If you are interested in ankle surgery, make sure to choose a highly experienced podiatric surgeon for the procedure. The less experience a physician has with a procedure, the higher the risk of complications.

The foot and ankle surgeons at Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care are highly trained and skilled in arthroscopic ankle repair surgery. We use this technique to treat many conditions that affect the bones, joints, and soft tissues in the ankles and will assess whether you are a good candidate for ankle surgery. Our podiatric surgeons use a compassionate and collaborative approach when it comes to treating patients. To schedule an appointment with one of our physicians, call our podiatry clinic nearest you or use our convenient online request form.