Summary

The panoramic scope offers an improved field of view for anterior and lateral ankle arthroscopy, and is comparable to the standard 30° and 70° arthroscopes for posterior arthroscopy and Achilles tendon visualization

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this cadaveric study is to compare the field of view of this new panoramic arthroscope with the standard 30° and 70° arthroscopes in ankle arthroscopy.

Methods

This cadaveric study was conducted on a fresh, unembalmed anatomical specimen. An expert ankle surgeon performed the ankle arthroscopy in the following order: anterior, lateral, posterior, and Achilles tendon insertion regions. Each compartment was examined using the new panoramic arthroscope as well as the standard 30° and 70° arthroscopes. For each arthroscopy, predefined landmarks were identified and evaluated within the field of view of each of the three arthroscopes.

Results

All predefined landmarks could be reached by the three arthroscopes; however, the panoramic scope demonstrated superiority by including them within the same field of view during both anterior and lateral ankle arthroscopy. For the posterior arthroscopy and the Achilles tendon insertion region the fields of view were comparable amongst the arthroscopes.

Conclusion

The panoramic scope offers an improved field of view for anterior and lateral ankle arthroscopy, and is comparable to the standard 30° and 70° arthroscopes for posterior arthroscopy and Achilles tendon visualization. Its panoramic view can diminish the need for accessory portals and enhance ergonomics for the surgeon.