Safety of neurovascular structures in ankle arthroscopy: cadaveric study

Abstract

Introduction: Anterior and posterior portals used for ankle arthroscopy but anterior portals are safer, provide good access and visualisation of joint. Aims: The anatomical structures nearby portals are vulnerable to injury during surgery. To study the anatomy of ankle joint using dissection method. Methods and material: 20 cadaveric limbs were dissected and the distance of different portals to the nearby neurovascular structures was measured. Results: The mean distance from anteromedial portal to the great saphenous vein and saphenous nerve was 5.28 mm, 9.12mm and that between the medial midline portal to the dorsalis pedis artery and deep peroneal nerve was 10.08 mm and 16.20mm. The mean distance from anterocentral portal to the dorsalis pedis artery was 2.38mm, to superficial peroneal nerve was 7.09mm and deep peroneal nerve was 4.12mm. The mean distance from anterolateral portal to lateral branch of superficial peroneal nerve was 3.18mm. There was injury in one specimen. Conclusions: This present study concluded that medial midline portal is comparatively safe for ankle arthroscopy. Anterocentral portal has potential risk of injury to dorsalis pedis artery.