The joint jack: report of a new technique essential for elbow arthroscopy.

Abstract

Visualization and access are of fundamental importance in arthroscopy, including arthroscopy of the elbow. A new technique not previously described in the literature improves both of these factors for key areas within the elbow that would otherwise be inaccessible. This technique employs the application of gentle leverage to pry apart the surfaces of the ulnohumeral articulation when viewing and working posteriorly to improve visualization and access to the ulnohumeral and radiocapitellar articular spaces. We believe this technique is essential for full arthroscopic viewing of the intra-articular regions of the ulnohumeral and radiocapitellar joints.