Ankle Cartilage Surgery In Singapore
Dr Wang Lushun
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore)
MRCS (Edin)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
- Get back to a healthier, more active lifestyle by treating your ankle cartilage injury
- Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon
- Internationally recognised, more than 1500 surgeries performed
What is An Ankle Cartilage Injury?
An ankle cartilage injury occurs when the protective cushioning in the ankle joint becomes damaged or wears down. It’s a common injury that affects athletes, individuals with a history of ankle sprains, and those suffering from conditions like osteoarthritis. Proper diagnosis and treatment are recommended, as leaving it untreated could lead to the following:
- Worsened pain and discomfort in the ankle
- Accelerated joint degeneration
- Increased risk of developing arthritis
- Compromised overall stability and balance
Symptoms of An Ankle Cartilage Injury
An ankle cartilage injury usually manifests in a range of symptoms, depending on the severity of the damage and the underlying cause. Here are some of the most common signs:
Swelling
Swelling or inflammation is your body's natural response to the injury, which occurs due to increased fluid around the joint.
Pain
A damaged cartilage can’t effectively cushion the joint during movement, which leads to pain and discomfort.
Joint stiffness
Limited joint flexibility results from swelling and pain, making it difficult to move the ankle smoothly.
Joint instability
As cartilage damage progresses, it can cause the ankle joint to weaken, leading to a feeling of instability or giving way.
Get relief from ankle sprain pain
through proper diagnosis and treatment.
through proper diagnosis and treatment.
Restore your ankle's strength and flexibility while reducing the likelihood of additional harm and lasting health issues.
Am I A Candidate for
Ankle Cartilage Repair Surgery?
Ankle cartilage repair surgery in Singapore can be a life-changing solution for many individuals with ankle injuries. Your orthopaedic specialist will consider several factors to determine the best course of action for your case, such as:
When Is The Best Time To Have Ankle Cartilage Repair Surgery?
When you should undergo ankle cartilage repair surgery depends on various factors, including the severity of the injury, your overall health, and your body’s response to conservative treatments. Ideally, surgery should be considered once non-surgical options have been exhausted. Your orthopaedic surgeon will assess your condition and recommend whether or not surgery is the most appropriate course of action based on your situation.
What causes ankle cartilage injury?
Ankle cartilage injuries are caused by various factors such as trauma, overuse, or wear and tear due to ageing. Athletes or individuals with a history of ankle sprains are more prone to developing this type of injury, and certain medical conditions like osteoarthritis can also contribute to cartilage damage.
Can ankle cartilage injuries heal on their own?
Some mild ankle cartilage injuries may heal with conservative treatments, including rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. However, severe cases might require surgical intervention to effectively repair the damaged cartilage.
Ankle Cartilage Repair Surgery Recovery Process
| Recovery Period | What to Expect: |
|---|---|
| Immediately after surgery (Week 0-2): |
|
| First few weeks after surgery (Week 2-6): |
|
| First few months after surgery (Week 6-12): |
|
| Several months after surgery (12 weeks onwards): |
|
Dr Wang Lushun
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore)
MRCS (Edin)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
Internationally Recognised & Double Fellowship-Trained Surgeon With Over 18 Years of Experience
- Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS),
National University of Singapore - Member of The Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS),
Edinburgh, United Kingdom - Master of Medicine in Orthopaedic Surgery (MMed),
National University of Singapore - Fellow of The Royal College of Surgeons in Orthopaedics and Traumatology (FRCS), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
As a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and former Head of the Hip and Knee Division in Ng Teng Fong Hospital, he has won awards for superior patient outcomes (value driven), service quality and enhanced recovery programmes. His patients include current and former national athletes and sporting professionals.
Why Choose
Dr Wang Lushun?
Trusted
Leadership on Orthopaedic Advisory Boards
Skilful
Double Fellowships at Centres of Excellence
Experienced
Senior Consultant with Over 18 Years of Experience
Can I Use Medisave For Ankle Cartilage Repair Surgery?
Yes, you can use Medisave for your surgery upon approval, but please reach out to us to learn
more about payment options.
Patient-Centred Orthopaedic Care
We are dedicated to your recovery and well-being. Every patient deserves the freedom that comes with active living. Whether you're an athlete sidelined by an injury or a weekend hobbyist desperate to return to your passion, our mission is to help you regain your mobility and independence.
Personalised Approach For Positive Outcomes
Our clinic prioritizes time dedicated to understanding each patient’s injuries and needs. Dr Wang strongly believes that personalised care & patient management will lead to better outcomes & positive experiences.
Minimally Invasive Techniques For Faster Recovery
Dr Wang’s extensive experience with minimally invasive procedures allows for less scarring, lower risk of complications and faster recovery compared to traditional surgical methods.
Aftercare Focused On Restoring Mobility & Well-Being
As an avid sportsperson, Dr Wang understands the time and patience required to regain mobility and return to active living. After your procedure is completed, Dr Wang will make sure your recovery is smooth and comfortable.
Insurance
We accept all patients, with or without insurance plans. Additionally, we are on the specialist panels of these Health Networks/Insurance Plans. Please contact us if you have any queries and we will be happy to assist you in checking with your insurance provider.
Our Clinic Locations
3 Mount Elizabeth, #13-14
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
820 Thomson Road, Mount Alvernia Hospital, #05-51, Medical Centre D, Singapore 574623
Frequently Asked Questions
How is an ankle cartilage injury diagnosed?
A proper diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, an assessment of the patient’s medical history, and imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. These tests help the orthopaedic specialist evaluate the extent of the injury and determine the most suitable treatment plan.
How long does it take to recover from an ankle cartilage injury?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and the chosen treatment method. Conservative treatments may take several weeks to months, while surgical recovery typically takes anywhere from 3 to 6 months, with physical therapy and rehabilitation playing a significant role in the healing process.
How can I prevent ankle cartilage injuries?
You can prevent ankle cartilage injuries, practice proper exercise techniques, maintain a healthy weight, wear supportive footwear, and engage in regular strength and flexibility exercises. Additionally, be mindful of potentially hazardous surfaces and address any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to joint damage.
Is it possible to return to sports after ankle cartilage injury treatment?
Yes, many patients return to sports after completing their treatment for an ankle cartilage injury. The timeline for resuming sports activities depends on the severity of the injury, the chosen treatment method, and the individual’s adherence to rehabilitation and physical therapy programs.
Will I develop arthritis after an ankle cartilage injury?
An untreated ankle cartilage injury can increase the risk of developing arthritis, as damaged cartilage can lead to accelerated joint degeneration. Seeking prompt treatment and following your doctor’s recommendations can help minimize this risk and promote joint health.
What are the risks and complications associated with ankle cartilage repair surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, ankle cartilage repair surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, nerve damage, and anaesthesia complications. Additionally, there’s a possibility of incomplete healing or recurring symptoms, which may require further intervention.