Arthroscopic debridement for the osteoarthritic ankle.

We were able to review 27 out of 32 patients who had arthroscopic debridement for osteoarthritis of the ankle. The patients had symptoms for an average of 4 years before the procedure. The average follow up was 45 months. Following arthroscopic debridement, 17 of the 27 patients showed improvement, although only 2 ankles were restored to normal function. There was a statistically significant improvement in pain, swelling, stiffness, limp, and activity level. Changes in the feeling of instability failed to reach significance. Overall, there were 2 complications of numbness related to the anterolateral portal, but these resolved. Arthroscopic debridement of the ankle can offer relief to approximately two thirds of patients, but it is important to stress to patients that the degree of improvement is limited.