Purpose: The purpose of this study was to quantify the distance of dual direct lateral (posterolateral
radiocapitellar) arthroscopic portals to the lateral ligamentous structures and to
report the percentage of capitellum accessible through these portals. Methods: Arthroscopy was performed on 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric elbows via a standard 6-portal
approach. The portals included dual direct lateral portals created in the posterolateral
soft spot. The arthroscope was placed through one direct lateral portal; an arthroscopic
electrocautery device was placed through the other direct lateral portal and was used
to mark all accessible areas of the capitellum. Open dissection allowed measurement
of the distances of the portals from the lateral ligamentous structures, as well as
determination of the percentage of capitellum accessible through these portals. Results: The more ulnar of the dual lateral portals averaged 9.1 mm from the lateral ulnar
collateral ligament, 11.5 mm from the annular ligament, and 13.1 mm from the radial
collateral ligament. The more radial of the dual lateral portals averaged 1.5 mm,
9.7 mm, and 7.0 mm from these ligaments, respectively. Seventy-eight percent of the
capitellum was accessible for instrumentation with these portals. Conclusions: Correct placement of dual direct lateral portals does not disrupt the lateral ligamentous
complex and allows access to a large portion of the capitellum. Clinical Relevance: Use of dual direct lateral portals is safe and practical for arthroscopic treatment
of capitellar osteochondritis dissecans.
Key Words
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Article info
Footnotes
Research was supported by Arthrex, Naples, Florida. The authors report no conflict of interest.
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© 2007 Arthroscopy Association of North America. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
