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.