Ankle Synovectomy
Ankle Synovectomy in Bengaluru at VijaySheela Sports-Orthopedics Clinic
At VijaySheela Sports-Orthopedics Clinic, Bengaluru, Dr. Vijay Girish performs Ankle Synovectomy — a surgical procedure designed to remove inflamed or diseased synovial tissue from the ankle joint. This treatment helps relieve pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by chronic synovial inflammation or arthritis, restoring normal joint function and improving mobility.
Depending on the condition, Dr. Vijay Girish may perform the procedure either through open surgery or minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. Arthroscopic synovectomy, in particular, offers the advantage of faster recovery, minimal tissue disruption, and reduced postoperative discomfort, making it ideal for most patients.
What is Ankle Synovectomy?
Ankle Synovectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the inflamed or thickened synovial lining — the soft tissue that lubricates and protects the joint. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, infection, trauma, or repetitive stress can cause chronic inflammation of this lining, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited movement. By removing the diseased synovium, the surgery helps reduce inflammation, improve joint function, and prevent further joint damage.
Common Reasons for Ankle Synovectomy
Ankle Synovectomy is usually recommended for patients who have not responded to medications or physical therapy. Common conditions and symptoms that may require this surgery include:
- Chronic synovitis (persistent inflammation of the synovial membrane).
- Rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory joint diseases causing recurrent swelling and pain.
- Synovial chondromatosis — formation of loose bodies within the joint.
- Post-traumatic synovitis or chronic irritation after an ankle injury.
- Persistent ankle swelling, stiffness, and limited movement despite non-surgical treatment.
Surgical Process and Recovery
Ankle Synovectomy is performed under regional or general anesthesia. The procedure can be done using either open or arthroscopic methods, depending on the severity and extent of the inflammation. In arthroscopic synovectomy, small incisions are made around the ankle, and a tiny camera (arthroscope) is used to guide the removal of the diseased tissue with specialized instruments.
- Most patients can go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
- A soft dressing or splint is applied for protection and to reduce swelling.
- Gentle ankle movements and physiotherapy are started within a few days post-surgery.
- Stitches are removed after 10–14 days, with progressive weight-bearing introduced gradually.
- Full recovery and return to normal activities typically occur within 4–6 weeks.
At VijaySheela Sports-Orthopedics Clinic, Bengaluru, Dr. Vijay Girish utilizes advanced arthroscopic and open surgical techniques for Ankle Synovectomy to ensure precise tissue removal and optimal joint preservation. His patient-centered approach, combined with customized rehabilitation, ensures effective pain relief, improved ankle mobility, and long-term functional recovery — helping patients regain a pain-free and active lifestyle.