Dr Crowley specialises in arthroscopic surgery of the ankle and ankle ligament reconstructive surgery.
Ankle ligament reconstructive surgery is performed to repair the stabilising ligament structures of the ankle that may be damaged due to trauma or illness. The aim of the surgery is to alleviate pain and restore normal stability, range of movement and functionality.
The procedure is performed via small incisions in the ankle and under general anaesthesia +/- nerve block and sedation. The necessary repairs to the ligaments are then performed. Recovery will take six weeks to three months, depending on the patient’s age, general medical condition and adherence to a physiotherapy program.
The Achilles tendon, connects the calf muscle to the heel, may be ruptured when it is stretched beyond its capacity. The rupture is a separation of the tendon fibres, which cause the inability of the tendon to perform its normal function.
Surgery to repair an Achilles rupture involves overnight admission to hospital and anaesthesia with or without a nerve block. An incision is made through which the ruptured tendon is stitched together. Depending on the degree of injury, additional tendons may be needed to reinforce the Achilles. Recovery will take between three and twelve months before the patient returns to normal activity levels. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are essential to proper recovery.
