Arthroscopic Foot & Ankle Surgery Treatment in Miami & Doral, Florida
Arthroscopic Foot & Ankle Surgery
Ankle and foot arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows orthopedic surgeons to evaluate and treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions using a small camera, called an arthroscope, inserted directly into the joint. This advanced technique allows Dr. Alejandro Pino to treat injuries and disorders with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues while providing precise visualization of the joint structures.
The arthroscope is a flexible, fiber-optic instrument with a light source and a camera that projects high-definition images of the inside of the joint onto a monitor. This technology allows Dr. Pino to directly assess cartilage, bone, ligaments, and tendons, and to perform surgical repairs with remarkable accuracy.
Indications
Arthroscopic foot and ankle surgery, also referred to as keyhole surgery, is highly effective for a range of conditions, including:
- Ankle arthritis
- Osteochondral defects of the talus
- Ankle instability
- Post-traumatic or chronic ankle fractures
- Removal of loose bodies or bone spurs
- Undiagnosed ankle pain
- Infections or inflammatory joint disorders
Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery
Compared to traditional open surgery, arthroscopy offers several advantages:
- Smaller incisions with minimal scarring
- Reduced trauma to surrounding soft tissues
- Less post-operative pain
- Faster healing and recovery
- Lower risk of infection
- Earlier mobilization and physical therapy
- Shorter hospital stays
Procedure
During the procedure, Dr. Pino makes two to three small incisions around the ankle or foot joint. The arthroscope is inserted through one incision, and sterile fluid is introduced to expand the joint space for better visualization. High-definition imaging allows precise assessment of cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bone.
Specialized miniature instruments are then inserted through the other small incisions to treat the problem-whether that involves repairing ligaments, removing loose bodies, debriding damaged tissue, or addressing cartilage defects.
Once the procedure is complete, the instruments are removed, the joint is rinsed, and the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape and covered with a sterile dressing.
Post-Surgical Care
Recovery following arthroscopy depends on the nature and extent of the procedure. Postoperative care may include:
- Immobilization with a splint or boot
- Elevation of the foot and ankle to reduce swelling
- Ice application as recommended
- Pain management with prescribed medications
- Gradual return to weight-bearing and physical therapy under Dr. Pino's guidance
- Keeping the incision clean and dry until fully healed
Because arthroscopy is minimally invasive, most patients experience faster recovery and earlier return to normal activities compared with open surgery.
Risks and Complications
Ankle and foot arthroscopy is generally safe, with a low incidence of complications. Potential risks may include:
- Infection
- Damage to nerves or blood vessels
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Persistent stiffness or pain
- Rarely, compartment syndrome
Careful surgical planning, precision techniques, and adherence to post-operative instructions help minimize these risks.
Why Choose Alejandro Pino, MD for Arthroscopic Foot & Ankle Surgery?
Dr. Alejandro Pino is a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon specializing in minimally invasive procedures. He leverages arthroscopy and modern surgical technology to provide tailored treatment plans based on the patient's unique anatomy, condition, and activity goals.
Patients choose Dr. Pino because of his:
- Expertise in both diagnostic and therapeutic foot and ankle arthroscopy
- Precision in minimally invasive surgery, reducing trauma and speeding recovery
- Ability to treat complex conditions while preserving joint function
- Commitment to individualized care, clear communication, and realistic recovery planning
- Focus on long-term outcomes, including joint stability and mobility
Dr. Pino's approach ensures that arthroscopic surgery is not only technically advanced but also personalized for optimal healing, faster return to activity, and durable results.
