[Arthroscopy of the upper ankle joint. List of indications from the literature--realistic expectations--complications].

Based on the results of a retrospective study of 116 patients who underwent diagnostic and surgical arthroscopy of the ankle, we present the technique, the results, the complications, and the indications for ankle arthroscopy. The average age of the patients was 33 years (range 10-70 years). At follow-up the patients were examined clinically as well as radiologically. The results were scored for the criteria pain, function, athletic activity, walking aids, range of motion, and swelling. The overall score increased significantly from 50.1 preoperatively to 73.7 postoperatively (P < 0.05). The decrease in pain and the improvements in function and athletic activity after arthroscopy were significant. The other parameters (walking aids, range of motion, swelling) showed only slight changes. The patients' subjective assessment (visual analogue scale) also revealed a significant increase, from 35.6 to 69.5 (P < 0.05). After arthroscopy the preexisting radiologic lesions continued to progress. Some 71.2% of the patients suffered no limitations their work at follow-up but 13.6% reported slight limitations and 15.3% experienced moderate limitations. We documented severe restrictions in athletic activity; only 17% of the patients had maintained their previous level. In 16 cases we found iatrogenic temporary neurologic damage.