[Arthroscopy of the talocrural articulation]

Arthroscopy of the ankle joint meanwhile enjoys widespread use in those departments that perform arthroscopy so that the application of arthroscopic techniques can be considered a standard procedure also for the talocrural articulation. Various indications have become generally accepted and further areas of application will emerge. As is the case for the knee joint, arthroscopy of the ankle joint solely for diagnostic purposes has become obsolete and due to improved preoperative methods for diagnosis is no longer necessary as the sole procedure. The diagnostic work-up is normally followed by arthroscopic or open treatment. The multitude of clinical examinations and imaging techniques currently available enables noninvasive clarification of pathological conditions in the ankle joint to the greatest possible extent, making detailed preoperative planning possible in most cases. The present article describes the technique, indications, complications, and perspectives for arthroscopy of the talocrural articulation.