Laser & Arthroscopic Surgery of the Foot & Ankle
Technology and unique instrumentation have led to the development of surgical techniques for the diagnosis and repair of joint disorders. Knee arthroscopy was developed in the late 1960's. Small joint arthroscopy was developed in the early 1980's by orthopaedic and podiatric surgeons and adapted to foot and ankle joints.
Your podiatric surgeon may identify a potential problem with a foot or ankle joint after examining the lower extremity. Arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis or perform a surgical procedure within a joint using an arthroscopic instrument.
For example, needle-like probes enter the joint through a small opening of the skin. The podiatric surgeon introduces a tiny camera to inspect the joint. The podiatric surgeon may also insert surgical instruments through another small incision to perform additional procedures within the joint. Unlike traditional joint surgery that requires large incisions to expose the joint, arthroscopy uses small openings to examine the joint. By eliminating the need for large incisions, arthroscopy reduces the risk of infection and swelling. Podiatric surgeons may perform arthroscopic surgery in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers and in their offices. Arthroscopy is often a "same day" procedure allowing the patient to return home after surgery. Your podiatric surgeon will discuss all aspects of surgery with you.
