Ankle arthroscopy is a technique in which a fiber optic camera is inserted through a small incision to see the cartilage, ligaments, and bones surrounding a joint. Arthroscopy is used to make a final diagnosis after an examination and imaging scans have already occurred, and can also be used to perform surgeries that treat joint injuries. Arthroscopy is a great alternative to traditional open surgeries because the recovery time is typically much faster – many procedures are completed on an outpatient basis and patients can return home the same day. The small incisions may take days to heal, but the healing time of the joint depends on the condition and treatment of the specific problem. Complications are very rare and occur in less than 1% of patients but can include infection, blood clots, swelling, bleeding, and damage to blood vessels or nerves.