Ankle Arthroscopy

Evidence-based indications for hindfoot endoscopy

“…With small modifications of the heights of the portals originally described the hindfoot endoscopy technique in prone position permits a good access to the retrocalcaneal area, allowing operative treatment of pathologic calcaneal prominence and inflamed surrounding soft tissue [59, 63]. On the basis of reported clinical outcome, the endoscopic treatment of retrocalcaneal bursitis by means of calcaneoplasty is supported by a grade Cf of recommendation.…”

“…Nevertheless, during the technique development, it became evident that the anatomical features of the ankle, namely the convexity of the talar dome and the high congruency of the bony structures, limit the ability to treat pathologic condition located posterior in the joint. At this regard, some authors proposed supplementary posterior portals in combination with routine anterior ankle arthroscopy [21, 37, 59].…”

Operative Approaches to Ankle and Hindfoot Arthroscopy

“…1 However, in cases where both anterior and posterior lesions are present, intraoperative positioning switches are a significant inconvenience. While the option for a standard 2-portal hindfoot approach remains accepted, 34 a standard posterolateral portal with the patient in a supine position allows for access to nearly all lesions encountered. 10…”