Arthroscopic treatment of chronic synovitis of the ankle.

Arthroscopic synovectomy is a valuable tool in treating synovitis of the knee joint. We have identified a group of patients who benefit from ankle synovectomy. To determine the indications and long-term results of arthroscopic synovectomy of the ankle, we evaluated the history, preoperative examination, roentgenograms, and operative data of patients who underwent this procedure and had a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Sixteen patients who underwent arthroscopic ankle synovectomy were identified. Sprains and inversion-type injuries were common in this young patient group. All had failed conservative therapy. Operative findings revealed hypertrophic synovium in all cases. Good or excellent results were obtained in 75% of patients, using a subjective and functional evaluation scale. Complications were one deep infection, one superficial infection, and one temporary sensory paresthesia. Chronic synovitis, or anterior soft-tissue impingement, was responsive to arthroscopic treatment and results did not deteriorate over time.