Ankle Cartilage Repair in Singapore
Ankle cartilage repair refers to procedures aimed at addressing damage to the cartilage lining of the ankle joint. These interventions focus on restoring joint surface integrity to support ankle movement and load-bearing function. Read more below:
What Is Ankle Cartilage Injury?
The ankle is a joint that connects the bones of the lower leg to the bones of the foot, and allows for the upward (dorsiflexion), downward (plantar flexion), inward (pronation) and outward (supination) movement of the foot. In between these bones is the ankle cartilage, which serves as a shock absorber and cushion to reduce friction and facilitate smooth movements.
As with the tendons and ligaments that support the ankle joint, the cartilage is not exempted from damage that may arise from natural wear and tear and more commonly, injury. Depending on the severity of the damage, treatment ranges from rest to surgical ankle cartilage repair.
What are the symptoms of ankle cartilage injury?
Symptoms of an ankle cartilage injury vary and depend on the severity of the damage, but commonly include:
- persistent joint pain that worsens when weight is placed on the joint or continues while resting
- stiffness of the joint
- weakness or tenderness in the joint
- redness and swelling (usually developing a few hours after injury occurs)
- limited movement of the foot
Regardless of whether the abovementioned symptoms are mild or not, the patient is recommended to see a specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, such as ankle cartilage repair to prevent further damage.
What are the causes of ankle cartilage injury?
The most common cause of ankle cartilage injury is a heavy impact or direct trauma to the joint leading to cartilage tears, sprains, fractures and dislocations. This may occur as a result of engaging in heavy-impact sports, falling awkwardly on the joint and vehicular accidents. Natural wear and tear, repetitive foot motions, lack of movement and being overweight or obese also increase one’s risk of developing a cartilage injury.
What is ankle cartilage repair?
Depending on the type and severity of the injury sustained, treatment will range from resting and pain medications to immobility (casting) and ankle cartilage repair procedures. One notable thing about the cartilage is that unlike other cells, the cartilage cannot completely regenerate once damaged. In cases where cartilage damage is severe, ankle cartilage repair is recommended to alleviate pain and restore mobility in the joint.
What are the types of ankle cartilage repair procedures?
There are different techniques in ankle cartilage repair in Singapore, as follows:
- ArthroscopyArthroscopy is a minimally invasive form of ankle cartilage repair in which a thin, light-and-camera-equipped instrument is inserted into a small incision, and used to transmit images of the ankle joint onto a viewing monitor. Microsurgical instruments are also inserted into small incisions to repair the damaged cartilage, or remove loose or torn pieces of cartilage and bone. Singapore ankle arthroscopy offers less scarring, quicker recovery and less complications due to its minimally invasive nature.
- Open surgeryThe traditional way to perform an ankle cartilage repair, open surgery requires a larger incision, which offers higher visibility and movement in the surgical site. It is also done to repair torn or damaged cartilage, and remove loose pieces of tissue within the joint.
- Cartilage formationThis process involves removing the damaged cartilage and drilling small holes into nearby bones, thereby stimulating the formation of new cartilage. It can be done via arthroscopy.
- Cartilage transplantationIf damage is severe, cartilage from the knee may be obtained and transplanted into the ankle.
- Joint replacementThe ankle joint is replaced with a prosthetic one.
Who should undergo ankle cartilage repair?
Ankle cartilage repair in Singapore is recommended for patients with cartilage damage so severe that it significantly affects quality of life and day-to-day routines. It is also recommended in cases where more conservative treatments did not suffice.
Axis Orthopaedic Centre specialises in the treatment of foot and ankle disorders through techniques such as arthroscopy, ankle cartilage repair, bunion surgery and more. For more information about the clinic’s services or to schedule an appointment, call 9711 8888.
About Dr Seng Chusheng
Dr Seng Chusheng
About Dr Seng Chusheng
Dr Seng Chusheng is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Axis Orthopaedic Centre, specialising in foot and ankle surgery. His expertise includes minimally invasive bunion correction, complex foot and ankle fracture fixation, keyhole ligament reconstruction and cartilage repair. Over the course of his career, he has performed more than a thousand surgeries and manages a broad range of conditions, including general orthopaedic trauma and sport-related knee injuries.
Dr Seng received advanced fellowship training at the Assal Centre in Geneva, Switzerland, focusing on complex deformities, trauma and minimally invasive techniques. Before entering private practice, he served as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Singapore General Hospital and continues as a visiting consultant. His dedication to patient care has been recognised with the SingHealth Service With A Heart Award. Actively involved in research and education, Dr Seng regularly presents at local and international conferences and has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, reflecting his commitment to advancing orthopaedic practice.
Our Orthopaedic Clinic Locations
With three conveniently located clinics across Singapore, Dr Seng provides accessible and comprehensive orthopaedic care closer to where you live and work. Each location is equipped to deliver accurate diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
Medical Centre
#06-33
Singapore 329563
Medical Centre
#04-08
Singapore 427989
Medical Centre A
#03-08
Singapore 574623
Teleconsult Available
For foreign patients, a tele-consult on Zoom or WhatsApp can be done if pre-arranged in advance. Please email or WhatsApp first to enquire.
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