Ankle Pathology

Achilles tendon rupture is a clinical diagnosis, not an imaging one. It is common to see partial ruptures mentioned in ultrasound reports, but in practice the rupture is most often complete; the plantaris tendon, which runs alongside the Achilles tendon, may remain intact.

Both conservative treatment with cast immobilization and surgical treatment may be considered. While conservative treatment carries no surgical risk, surgical treatment reduces the risk of re-rupture, secondary tendon lengthening, and atrophy of the triceps surae. The indication is systematically discussed during the consultation, with the advantages and disadvantages of each option presented based on the patient's profile.

These lesions, which affect both bone and cartilage, are responsible for deep ankle pain that patients have difficulty pinpointing precisely. As long as the pain remains manageable, intervention is not necessary; only cystic forms are monitored with annual imaging workup due to their potential for progression.

When the pain becomes disabling, the patient may choose to proceed with surgery. Depending on the size of the lesion, several options are available: osteochondral debridement with microfracture, mosaicplasty, or HemiCAP.

With the advent of biologic therapies, joint deterioration is generally less severe in patients with chronic inflammatory disease. When cartilage deterioration reaches the ankle, the other joints of the foot may also be affected, and spontaneous fusions of the hindfoot joints are possible.

It is therefore particularly worthwhile to preserve ankle joint mobility by performing a joint replacement, allowing satisfactory function to be maintained despite the inflammatory condition.

The pathologies of the inner ankle are joint pathologies such as osteochondral lesions, fractures, ligament injuries, inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis.

The diagnosis of an ankle pathology is suspected during the medical interview. Weight-bearing X-rays of the ankles should be performed systematically.

A CT scan is ordered for bone lesions and osteochondral lesions. An MRI allows visualization of soft tissues such as ligaments and tendons.

The management of ankle trauma and its sequelae is handled by an orthopedic surgeon, even when surgery is not indicated.

A rheumatologist manages inflammatory pathologies of the ankle; an appropriate long-term treatment is necessary.

No, not all treatments require surgery. We prioritize conservative solutions first, such as orthotics, physical therapy, injections or medications. If these approaches are not sufficient, we offer surgical procedures tailored to each patient, using modern techniques such as minimally invasive surgery.

Minimally invasive surgery involves operating through small incisions, often under imaging guidance. This approach helps reduce postoperative pain, speed up recovery and minimize scarring. It is particularly effective for conditions such as hallux valgus and more complex foot deformities.

A consultation lasts on average between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case. This time allows our specialist to make an accurate diagnosis, review the results of any imaging tests, and discuss with you the treatment options best suited to your situation.