Transarticular approach for elbow arthroscopy.

Arthroscopy of the stiff elbow joint is a technically difficult procedure because of the decreased joint space of the elbow joint, even to experienced surgeons. Problems encountered include limited access of instrument to the intra-articular space and an increased risk of cartilage injury in the contracted elbow joint. This study describes a novel transarticular approach for elbow arthroscopy that allows the safe and effective creation of the proximal medial and lateral portals.