Post-Operative Management

Following diagnostic or therapeutic arthroscopy of the ankle, portal wounds are closed with adhesive tapes or a single suture, and a sterile compression bandage is applied. A short leg compression stocking will hold the dressings in place. Patients are usually allowed to go home on the day of surgery, with weight bearing without crutches, as tolerated. Instructions for simple range of motion and strengthening exercises are given, to be started immediately at home.

Dressings are usually removed on the first or second post-operative day, with the exception of the band-aids and compression stocking which are maintained for one more week. Formal physical therapy is initiated after the first post-operative visit, at the surgeon's discretion. Depending on the surgical procedure and speed of recovery, normal activities, including athletic activities, can usually be resumed within three to six weeks after surgery. Recovery can be longer after arthroscopic drilling of the talus.

Follow-up Appointments

The first follow up appointment is usually arranged for 2-3 weeks after surgery. Physiotherapy should be started soon after surgery, usually 3-5 days later and continued 2-3 times a week for 2-6 weeks depending on the individual patient's progress.

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