Based on the one experience and the information that is available in the li
terature indications for ankle arthroscopy are given, surgical equipment, p
atient placement and surgical technique of different procedures are describ
ed. Finally the results and possible complications are presented. Removal o
f loose bodies as well as synovectomies in case of an acute infection or rh
eumatoid arthritis are good indication. Arthroscopic treatment of anterior
pathology in the athletic ankle need a thorough diagnostic work-up; the res
ults of the treatment do not always meet the expectations of this especiall
y demanding population. Cartilage treatment is technically possible, howeve
r, long term results are still missing. This is also true for the treatment
on osteochondritis dissecans. In patients with degenerative joint disease
arthroscopic debridement can only lead to a temporary benefit. Arthroscopic
assisted arthrodeses (AAA) is technically demanding, but can serve as an e
xcellent alternative to conventional open techniques. The complication rate
in ankle arthroscopy is high compared to other joints, which is especially
true for neurologic complications and postoperative infections. This shoul
d be addressed when performing the informed consent.