The Posterior Trans-Septal Portal in Knee Arthroscopy Review of the Technique Evolution, Indications, and Technical...

Complete arthroscopic visualization of the posterior com-partment of the knee is limited when using the traditional anterior portals. The trans-septal portal technique, created in 1997, has allowed surgeons to view the complete posterior compartment of the knee in a less-invasive way compared to open surgery. Since the description of the posterior trans-septal portal, several authors have modified the technique. However, the paucity of literature describing the trans-septal portal technique hints that widespread arthroscopic adop-tion has not yet been achieved. While still in its infancy, the literature has cumulatively reported over 700 successful knee surgeries using the posterior trans-septal portal technique with no reports of neurovascular injury. However, creation of the trans-septal portal carries risks due to its close prox-imity to the popliteal and middle geniculate artery, giving surgeons little room for technical error when developing this portal. Knowledge of the posterior anatomy, the evolution of the trans-septal portal, and current recommendations and safety options for using the technique will benefit orthopedic surgeons looking to incorporate this technique into their surgical arsenal. Furthermore, utilization of the trans-septal portal technique offers a significant benefit to the surgical treatment of conditions that involve the need for posterior knee access or visualization.