Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the ankle joint when pain, stiffness, or instability have not improved with nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy, injections, or medication. The process begins with an orthopedic evaluation to confirm that symptoms are coming from within the joint itself. Arthroscopy is often recommended for people who continue to have pain, swelling, or difficulty moving the ankle despite conservative care. Before surgery, patients receive guidance on how to prepare, which may include adjusting certain medications, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and temporarily stopping food or drink prior to the procedure. These steps help reduce surgical risks and support proper healing. Ankle arthroscopy is typically performed under regional or general anesthesia, depending on the individual case. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a few very small incisions around the ankle and inserts an arthroscope, a thin instrument with a camera and light, to visualize the inside of the joint. Additional small instruments are introduced through separate incisions to treat the underlying problem. Arthroscopy can be used to address a variety of conditions, including ligament injuries, joint impingement, instability, inflammation, and the removal of damaged cartilage, bone fragments, or scar tissue. One of the most common techniques used is debridement, which involves cleaning out irritated or damaged tissue to improve joint movement and reduce pain. Most ankle arthroscopy procedures take about an hour and are done on an outpatient basis. After surgery, patients typically go home the same day. Recovery instructions may include limiting weight-bearing, elevating and icing the ankle, keeping the incision clean, and taking anti-inflammatory medications for pain control. Some patients need to wear a splint or boot for a short period, and crutches may be required depending on the extent of the procedure. Physical therapy usually begins after the initial healing phase and focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, balance, and range of motion. While many people return to seated work within a few weeks, full recovery and return to high-impact activities or sports can take several months, depending on the condition treated and individual healing progress. Ankle arthroscopy offers the advantage of smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, reduced risk of complications, and a faster recovery compared to open surgery. Although complications are uncommon, they can include infection, nerve irritation, blood clots, or the need for additional treatment if symptoms persist.