Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: An air-fluid medium to enhance visual clarity.

Abstract

We describe a surgical technique that has been used successfully during arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction to enhance the visual clarity of the operating field specifically during tunnel placement. The precise siting of both tibial and femoral tunnels is critical to both the short- and long-term success of this procedure. Gentle insufflation of the knee joint with air prior to tunnel siting allows for an excellent view of the intercondylar notch. This visual clarity helps in the precise placement and measurement of the femoral tunnel.