Combined anterior and posterior ankle arthroscopy

Abstract

Objectives: Ankle arthroscopy can be performed either as a surgery of the anterior or posterior part of the ankle or as a combined surgery of the ankle’s anterior and posterior aspects. This research aimed to analyse indications, complications, and results of the combined anterior and posterior ankle arthroscopy and compare them with the results from the literature. Materials and methods: Search of the surgery logs at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital Centre Zagreb revealed 169 consecutive combined anterior and posterior ankle arthroscopies performed during nine years. Results: The most common indication was anterior and posterior ankle impingement. Other indications were posttraumatic contracture, posttraumatic osteoarthritis, and various causes of synovitis of the ankle. During the follow-up period, six complications were noted. Furthermore, in thirteen patients, revision surgery was required. Conclusion: This research indicates that anterior and posterior ankle impingement is the most common indication for anterior and posterior ankle arthroscopy. Furthermore, it confirms the safety and efficacy of this procedure in patients with anterior and posterior ankle impingement, posttraumatic contracture, posttraumatic osteoarthritis and various causes of synovitis of the ankle.