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Updated: Jan 11, 2026
Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018
The utility of needle arthroscopy in the ankle joint: A cadaveric study evaluating visualization, surgical
Błażej Grzegorz Wójtowicz1, Łukasz Gołek1, Rafał Długozima1
1Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Medical University of Lodz, University Hospital of Lodz No 2, Zeromskiego 113 St., Lodz 90-549, Poland.
Background:
Needle arthroscopy (nanoscopy) is gaining recognition as a minimally invasive alternative to standard arthroscopy, offering improved visualization of intra-articular structures. This cadaveric study evaluates its feasibility, effectiveness, and learning curve in the ankle joint.
Methods:
Twenty fresh-frozen cadaveric ankle specimens were examined using a 1.9 mm NanoScope™ (Arthrex, Naples FL, USA). Four orthopedic surgeons (two experienced - Group 1, two inexperienced - Group 2) performed the procedures. Visualization of five key anatomical structures was assessed using a 5-point Likert scale.
Results:
Needle arthroscopy enabled complete visualization of all predefined structures. The tibiofibular syndesmosis had the highest visualization scores (Group 1: 4.8 ± 0.16; Group 2: 4.5 ± 0.26), while the visualization of the ankle joint was the most challenging (Group 1: 4.53 ± 0.36; Group 2: 3.53 ± 0.51; p < 0.05). Deltoid ligament visualization was significantly better in experienced surgeons (4.65 ± 0.23 vs. 3.75 ± 0.29; p = 0.048).
Conclusion:
Needle arthroscopy enhances visualization of deep ankle structures while remaining minimally invasive. Despite a learning curve, visualization scores were comparable across experience levels. Further research is needed to assess clinical outcomes and optimize training.
