Ankle anatomy for the arthroscopist. Part I: The portals.

Proper portal placement is critical to performing good diagnostic and therapeutic arthroscopy. When the portals are positioned improperly, visualization can be impaired, making diagnosis and treatment more difficult. Three main anterior portals are available in arthroscopy of the ankle: anteromedial, anterolateral, and anterocentral. Posterior portals are also routinely used in ankle arthroscopy and can be established at a posterolateral or posteromedial position or directly through the Achilles tendon. Because of the potential for serious complications, the anterocentral and transAchilles portals are no longer used. Other portals have been described to obtain more complete access, particularly to the posterior compartment of the ankle joint. This work reviews the relationships that exist between the most important anatomic structures and arthroscopic portals of the ankle.